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How to Get Paid to Move to Italy: Italian Towns Offering Incentives to Move There

Italy's picturesque landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture have long captivated the hearts of many. If you ever dreamed of moving to Italy, now might be the perfect time. Several Italian towns have introduced financial incentives to attract new residents and revitalize their communities. These towns offer cash payments, grants and even housing subsidies to encourage newcomers.

Why Italian Towns Are Offering Financial Incentives

Many small Italian towns face challenges such as declining populations, aging residents and economic stagnation. Over the past few decades, younger generations have moved to larger cities or other countries in search of job opportunities, leaving these charming but struggling towns in need of revitalization. To combat these issues, local Italian governments have devised creative solutions to attract newcomers, stimulate the economy and preserve their cultural heritage. Offering financial incentives is one such strategy to breathe new life into these communities.

 

Italian Towns Offering Financial Incentives

Here are some Italian towns that have recently offered financial incentives to new residents:

1. Presicce, Puglia

Located in the "heel" of Italy's boot, Presicce is a stunning town in the Salento region. In recent years, it has offered up to €30,000 (approximately $32,000 USD) to individuals willing to purchase and renovate abandoned homes in the town center. This initiative aims to attract families and remote workers who can contribute to the local economy.

2. Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abruzzo

This medieval village in the Abruzzo region has launched a program offering grants up to €44,000 (approximately $47,000 USD) to individuals willing to relocate and start a business. The initiative focuses on professionals under 40 who can contribute to the community. The town is particularly interested in attracting individuals who will open a business in tourism, sports, culture, cleaning, maintenance, drugstore management or marketing and selling local food. 

3. Candela, Puglia

Nicknamed "Little Naples" due to its vibrant culture, Candela offers financial incentives ranging from €800 to €2,000 (approximately $870 to $2,200 USD) for singles, couples and families willing to relocate. The only requirement is that newcomers must secure a job with a minimum annual income of €7,500.

4. Calabria Region

Calabria, home to breathtaking coastlines and picturesque mountain villages, has launched the "Active Residency Income" program. Newcomers can receive up to €28,000 (approximately $30,000 USD) over three years if they move to a town with fewer than 2,000 residents and start a small business. The catch is you need to move to the area within 90 days of your application’s acceptance. You also need to start a new business or find employment.

5. Sardinia

Sardinia, famous for its stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle, has introduced a relocation grant of up to €15,000 (approximately $16,000 USD) for individuals willing to move to rural areas. The goal is to revitalize these lesser-populated regions while preserving Sardinia's unique cultural heritage. To qualify you will need to move to a Sardinian town with a population of less than 3,000. 

6. Santa Fiora, Tuscany

This tiny medieval village is located in southern Tuscany. The town has upgraded to high-speech internet and that are also creating working areas throughout the historic districts in town, which is attracting digital nomads. Remote workers moving here can receive €200 ($240 USD) or 50% of their total rent if they agree to live there for two to six months. The town is also offering €30,000 ($36,604 USD) if you open a bed and breakfast or turn an old building into a hotel. As a bonus, after you become a resident, you will also receive €1,500 ($1,830 USD) for each baby born. 

 

How to Qualify for These Incentives

While the idea of getting paid to move to Italy is exciting, there are specific eligibility criteria to keep in mind:

  1. Residency Requirements: Most programs require recipients to become full-time residents for a minimum number of years.
  2. Business or Employment Commitment: Some towns ask newcomers to start a business or secure employment.
  3. Home Purchase or Renovation: Many initiatives require participants to invest in property within the town.
  4. Age Restrictions: Some programs prioritize younger applicants, particularly those under 40.
  5. Application Process: Each town has its own application procedure, including paperwork and financial proof.
     

Benefits of Moving to Italy

Moving to Italy, especially with financial support, offers several advantages:

  • Affordable Living: Many of these towns have a lower cost of living compared to major cities like Rome or Milan.
  • Rich Culture & History: Living in Italy means being surrounded by breathtaking architecture, world-class cuisine and a deep historical heritage.
  • Healthcare & Education: Italy offers excellent public healthcare and education systems.
  • Work-Life Balance: The Italian lifestyle promotes relaxation, social connections and high-quality food and wine.

 

Gain Italian Dual Citizenship Before Making Your Move

For those looking to make their move permanent, obtaining Italian dual citizenship can make the process easier. Gaining dual citizenship not only allows you to live and work freely in Italy, but also grants access to the entire European Union. If you have Italian ancestry contact, My Italian Family to set-up a free consultation to see if you quality for Italian Dual Citizenship today.