Across Italy, local and regional authorities are introducing programs that allow individuals and families to get paid to relocate. These initiatives are not promotional campaigns but structured responses to population decline, particularly in small towns and historic Italian villages that have experienced a steady loss of residents.

The concept of being paid to move to Italy reflects a broader strategy aimed at revitalizing communities, preserving housing stock, and sustaining local economies. Similar efforts are underway across Europe, as many countries face demographic challenges and seek long-term solutions to declining population levels.

 

Population decline and financial incentives in Italian villages

For decades, migration toward larger cities and abroad has reduced the number of residents in many rural towns. As younger generations leave, villages are left with vacant houses, declining business activity, and fewer services.

To address this, national and regional government bodies have introduced financial incentives designed to attract new residents. These programs are often aimed at families, professionals, and remote workers willing to relocate full time and integrate into local life.

The objective is not short-term relocation. Most initiatives require participants to commit to living in the area for a minimum period, frequently at least five years, to avoid repayment of the grant or other benefits.

How paid relocation programs work and who can get paid

Relocation programs in Italy generally combine cash incentives, housing support, and economic participation requirements. While the structure varies by region, common features include:

• A relocation grant paid over several years
• Funding to renovate or purchase a property
• Support to open or transfer a business
• Incentives specifically targeting remote workers

Eligibility is usually limited to eligible communities, often defined as small towns with fewer than a set number of residents. Applicants may need to sign residency commitments, demonstrate financial stability, and present a clear project for work or investment.

Top Italian regions offering relocation incentives in 2025

Tuscany and central Italy

Several towns in Tuscany provide financial incentives ranging from €10,000 to €30,000 for new residents who purchase and live in vacant homes. Radicondoli offers up to €20,000 for individuals or families willing to relocate and renovate a house. Those who buy must remain for ten years, while those who rent must stay for four.

Abruzzo region initiatives

In the Abruzzo region, Santo Stefano di Sessanio provides a grant of up to €8,000 per year for three years to younger residents aged 18 to 40. These programs are designed to stabilize the population of historic villages and support sustainable local activity.

Calabria and southern Italy

In southern Italy, the Calabria region offers relocation support of up to €20,000 for those willing to move to small towns with fewer than 3,000 residents and open a business. Additional cash support is available for qualifying remote workers. These initiatives aim to preserve mountain communities and strengthen the regional economy.

Sardinia and island communities

In Sardinia, a Sardinian municipality may provide non-repayable grant funding to new residents who buy or renovate a property in underpopulated towns. These programs are focused on revitalizing villages across the island and restoring abandoned houses.

Trentino and northern Italy

The Trentino region offers some of the highest-value relocation support in Italy. Grants can reach €100,000 for individuals willing to relocate and renovate abandoned homes. Recipients must live in the property for ten years or rent it at regulated rates. Trentino has allocated €10 million over two years to support this investment strategy.

Other regional examples

Emilia-Romagna provides up to €30,000 for new residents under 40 relocating to qualifying small towns, based on family income. Candela in Puglia offers up to €2,000 to entice people to move to a town with a population below 2,000.

Additional incentives beyond relocation grants

Beyond relocation programs, Italy offers national tax incentives that can support long-term settlement:

• A 50 percent income tax exemption for impatriate workers during the first three years, extendable
• A Digital Nomad Visa allowing remote workers to establish permanent residency
• A flat tax option for high-net-worth individuals, with additional amounts for family members
• A pensioner tax regime offering a 7 percent rate for retirees in qualifying towns

These measures can significantly reduce the overall paid cost of living and support long-term life planning in the country.

Legal and residency considerations before you relocate

While these incentives can be attractive, they are not unconditional. Many programs require:

• Registration as official residents
• Proof of permanent residency
• Compliance with renovation or business timelines
• Repayment if residency commitments are not met

For non-EU nationals, immigration status, visas, and long-term residence rights must be addressed before applying. Failure to meet requirements can result in loss of benefits or repayment obligations.

Get paid to move to Italy with the right legal guidance

While it is possible to get paid to relocate, success depends on proper planning and compliance. These programs are designed to create lasting benefits for both new residents and local communities, not short-term relocation.

Aprigliano International Law Firm provides legal support to individuals and families planning to relocate to Italy. Our team advises on immigration pathways, residency permits, tax considerations, and business establishment to ensure relocation efforts align with legal requirements and long-term goals.

Professional advice can help transform relocation incentives into a sustainable future in Italy.

 

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