The latest tax changes are prompting some Brits to pack their bags, and while some finance moguls predict a “mass exodus” of Britain’s wealthy, some nations have additional incentives to head on over.
Wayne Mills, the Head of Operations at Seven Seas Worldwide, commented: “It’s a win-win: you get a fresh start and a helping hand, while local economies enjoy a much-needed boost.”
These enticing offers from various countries often come with strings attached, such as relocating to certain areas, working in particular fields, or based on the number of children you have.
In Ireland, for those looking to call one of its 30 coastal islands home, and are willing to purchase and refurbish a vacant property, cash grants of upto €84,000 await. To qualify, one must commit to buying, renovating, and residing in their new abode for a minimum of a decade.
The expert shared: “Ireland is looking to revitalise and future-proof these beautiful islands by attracting a newer, younger population.”
This scheme has an eye out especially for remote workers and digital nomads, coinciding with the Irish government’s promise to enhance transport links, internet access, and healthcare across the island communities.
Switzerland is encouraging young families, specifically those with adults under 45, to relocate and enjoy a bonus of 20,000 CHF (£17,000), plus an additional 10,000 CHF (£8,900) for each child they have.
To qualify, you’ll need to move to the alpine village of Albinen, purchase a property worth over 200,000 CHF (£178,000), commit to living in Switzerland for at least ten years, and become a Swiss citizen.
If you decide to relocate to the northern Asturias region of Spain, particularly to Ponga, you could receive €2,971 (£2,475), plus another €2,971 for each newborn you welcome there.
In contrast to the other countries, Greece offers a monthly stipend of €500 (£416) instead of a lump sum to new residents on the island of Antikythera for three years after they move in due to the island’s declining population.
The island currently only has 45 permanent residents, hence the government’s urgent push to attract young families and build up the community.
Italy has three regions offering repopulation programs. If you’re under 40 and keen on starting fresh, the Calabria region will hand you a cool €28,000 (£23,000) if you move into one of their petite villages and either start a business or take up crucial job roles.
For those looking to set down family roots, Presicce Acquarica is dangling a carrot worth up to €30,000 (£24,000) for homebuyers, alongside a snug bonus of €1,000 (£800) for every bundle of joy you welcome there.
Sardinia invites you to inject new life into their island by offering €15,000 (£12,000) to anyone who fancies buying and revamping a home in towns with fewer than 3,000 people and committing to Sardinian life full-time.
If Europe doesn’t float your boat, Japan beckons with its Regional Revitalisation Program, boasting incentives up to ¥4,800,000 (£24,000) for folks willing to embrace the countryside away from the urban buzz.
Wayne notes: “A lot of young Japanese people don’t want to go through the hassle of trying to find a buyer when they inherit old family homes, so there are hundreds of traditional Japanese countryside houses offering amazing locations, space, and architecture that are just going to waste right now.”
And for students, Canada’s unique scheme could refund you up to CA$20,000 (£11,000). All you need to do is commit to four years of study at a Canadian establishment and then help populate Saskatchewan as part of its ongoing drive for skilled professionals.