Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

Discover the top places that will pay you to move there and learn about their opportunities for remote working and self-employment.

With the rise of remote working, the idea of moving to new places and exploring different facets of life has captivated the minds of many. Taking off on an adventure to a new location is undeniably exciting. However, the expenses involved can be a deterrent for some. What if we told you that there are places out there that not only welcome you with open arms but also pay you to move there?

Yes, you read that right. There are cities and countries across the globe that have enticing incentives, specifically tailored to attract remote workers and self-employed individuals. These programs are designed to make the relocation experience both appealing and financially rewarding. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into some top places that will pay you to move there, along with the specific requirements and offers they provide.

US States That Pay You to Move There

West Virginia

Incentive: Up to $12,000

Eligibility Requirements: 18 years old, U.S. citizen or green card holder, full-time remote work or self-employed outside of West Virginia

Visa Provision: No

West Virginia, often overlooked for its hidden gems, is a state that boasts unparalleled natural beauty and a myriad of outdoor recreation options. With historical attractions and prestigious colleges and universities, the Mountaineer State offers an enriching environment for both adventure seekers and academics. Moreover, its strategic location in proximity to major East Coast cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both tranquility and accessibility.

Thanks to the transformative program called Ascend West Virginia, West Virginia is now becoming an increasingly appealing destination for remote workers seeking a change of pace and a closer connection with nature. This innovative initiative enables remote workers to relocate to one of three picturesque communities in the state: the Morgantown Area, Greenbrier Valley, and the Eastern Panhandle.

The financial benefits are equally enticing, with remote workers receiving $10,000 dispersed over their first year in monthly installments. Upon completing their second consecutive year in the state, participants receive an additional $2,000. To complement the work-life balance, remote workers can also enjoy a year of free outdoor recreation, complete with vouchers and gear rentals, allowing them to immerse themselves in the state’s one-of-a-kind landscapes. The program also provides complimentary access to coworking spaces, facilitating a collaborative and dynamic work environment.

To be eligible for this opportunity, candidates must be at least 18 years old and be either a U.S. citizen or a green card holder. They should also be engaged in full-time remote work or be self-employed outside of West Virginia. The program requires participants to relocate within six months of acceptance, encouraging swift action to embrace the new experience.

Alaska

Incentive: Up to $3,284 annual payment from mineral revenues

Eligibility Requirements: U.S. citizenship or permanent U.S. residency, full-time residency in Alaska for the entire calendar year

Visa Provision: No

Alaska has become an attractive destination for many due to its unique program known as the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). This program rewards full-time residents with a portion of the state’s mineral revenues, providing an annual payment to eligible Alaskans. In 2022, the PFD payment was further supplemented with an energy relief payment, resulting in a total amount of $3,284.

To qualify for the PFD, eligible Alaska residents must establish and maintain residency in the state for the entire calendar year. The distribution of payments begins in September, rewarding those who have met the residency requirements upon approval. However, it’s essential to adhere to certain guidelines to maintain eligibility. Allowable absences of up to 180 days are permitted, but any absence beyond that period may affect eligibility for the PFD.

Alaska law requires an application, U.S. citizenship or permanent U.S. residency, and state residency to get the PFD. Additionally, individuals claiming residency in another state or possessing certain convictions or being incarcerated are not eligible for the program.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Incentive: $10,000 cash reward

Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, eligible to work in the U.S., and engaged in full-time remote work or be self-employed outside of Oklahoma

Visa Provision: No

Tulsa, situated on the banks of the Arkansas River and renowned for its art deco architecture, has become a dream destination for remote workers, all thanks to the innovative Tulsa Remote Program.

The program offers remote workers a cash reward of $10,000, making it an enticing prospect for those seeking a change of scenery and new experiences. The incentive is broken down as follows: participants receive a $2,500 upfront payment, which helps alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with moving. Additionally, during their first year in the city, participants receive an extra $500 per month, followed by a bonus of $1,500 upon completing their first year.

As part of the package, remote workers are also provided with a 36-month membership at a local coworking space, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth.

To be eligible for this opportunity, applicants must be at least 18 years old and eligible to work in the U.S. It is necessary to secure full-time remote employment or be self-employed outside of Oklahoma. The program welcomes college graduates as well, opening doors for young professionals seeking a fresh start in a vibrant community.

Topeka, Kansas

Incentive: Up to $15,000 cash for relocation to Shawnee County

Eligibility Requirements: On-site workers need participating employers and eligibility to work in the U.S. Remote workers can apply after three months of moving and must meet other requirements.

Visa Provision: No

Consider moving to the vibrant capital city of the Sunflower State, where enticing cash incentives await you. Depending on your work status, you could receive up to $15,000 through Choose Topeka Program. For on-site workers, if your employer participates and you move to Shawnee County within a year, you can get $10,000 for rent or $15,000 for a home purchase in the first year. Remote workers with employers outside the county can receive up to $5,000 toward rent or $10,000 for a home purchase in their first year after moving.

To qualify, on-site workers need their employers to participate in the program, and they must be eligible to work in the U.S. As for remote workers, they can apply after three months of moving and must meet other requirements.

The program, initiated in 2020 and still active, aims to boost the city’s population and fill positions in key sectors like financial services, publishing, education, and government. If you’re seeking a fresh start with great incentives, Shawnee County might be your ideal destination.

International Places That Will Pay You to Move There

New Zealand

Incentive: Up to $36,000 in funding

Eligibility Requirements: Entrepreneurs with ventures focused on social, environmental, and economic outcomes.

Visa Provision: 3-year visa

Recognizing the power of entrepreneurial ventures to create a positive global impact, the New Zealand government has introduced an exciting initiative known as the New Zealand Global Impact Visa (GIVs).

At the heart of this program is a commitment to supporting ventures and models that go beyond mere profitability. It seeks to encourage enterprises that have the potential to generate positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes, benefiting not only New Zealand but the wider world as well.

One of the key features of the GIVs program is the provision of up to $36,000 in funding. This financial support acts as a catalyst for entrepreneurs, enabling them to transform their ideas into viable businesses. Moreover, the funding can be utilized to cover essential startup costs, research and development expenses, and initial operational needs.

Beyond financial assistance, the New Zealand Global Impact Visa offers successful applicants a 3-year visa to live and work in the country. During these three years, participants are also provided with a supportive ecosystem, gaining access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and a collaborative community of like-minded individuals.

After three years of contributing to the country’s entrepreneurial landscape and demonstrating the positive global impact of their ventures, participants have the opportunity to transition to permanent residency. This not only provides stability and security but also encourages continued investment in New Zealand’s economy and society.

Ireland

Incentive: Up to €50,000 in funding

Eligibility Requirements: Entrepreneurs with a comprehensive business plan

Visa Provision: 2-year visa

Understanding the significance of fostering startups and driving economic development, the Irish government has launched the Irish Start-Up Entrepreneur Programme.

One of the standout features of the program is the provision of up to €$50,000 in funding for entrepreneurs. In addition to financial assistance, successful applicants to the program are granted permission to reside and work in Ireland for a period of two years. Visa-required nationals are granted a multiple entry visa for the same duration, enabling seamless travel to and from Ireland throughout the permission period.

Furthermore, the Irish Start-Up Entrepreneur Programme offers long-term prospects for participants. After five years of residence in Ireland, entrepreneurs who have successfully contributed to the country’s entrepreneurial landscape become eligible for long-term residence status.

An enticing aspect of this program is its inclusivity. It welcomes entrepreneurs from around the world, regardless of their nationality. While applicants do not need to be Irish, they are required to register their company in Ireland, ensuring that the economic benefits of the program are retained within the country.

Candela, Italy

Incentive: From €800 to over €2,000 based on family size

Eligibility Requirements: Recipients must secure employment in Candela with a minimum annual salary of €7,500 and establish full residency by renting or purchasing a house

Visa Provision: No

Once a vibrant and prosperous town, Candela now faces the threat of becoming a mere memory of its former self. The decline of Candela began in the 1960s, and despite a brief resurgence in the 1990s when the town boasted over 8,000 inhabitants, its population has dwindled to less than 2,700. In an effort to reverse this trend, Nicola Gatta, the mayor of Candela, has initiated a program that offers financial incentives to attract new residents. Singles can receive a starting sum of €800, while couples are eligible for €1,200. Families with three members can avail amounts ranging from €1,500 to €1,800, and larger families consisting of four to five members can receive over €2,000.

However, there is a requirement for those who accept the offer. Recipients must secure employment in Candela with a minimum annual salary of €7,500. Residents are also required to establish their full residency in the town by renting or potentially purchasing a house. Additionally, residents can benefit from tax credits on council bills as well as childcare support. Just note that visa required nationals will still need to go through the visa application process.

Living in Candela offers a truly authentic Italian experience. Its proximity to Naples, with its rich history and vibrant culture, allows residents to immerse themselves in the region’s beauty and vitality. Moreover, being only an hour away from the coast provides easy access to stunning beaches and the joys of coastal living. For those who cherish the delights of Italian cuisine, Candela promises a culinary paradise, where traditional dishes and flavors await to be savored.

Albinen, Switzerland

Incentive: Up to 25,000 Swiss francs for adults and up to 10,000 francs for each child.

Eligibility Requirements: Must be a Swiss citizen or hold a permanent residency permit.

Commitment to purchasing a house in Albinen and making it the primary residence for a minimum of 10 years. Age requirement under 45.

Visa Provision: No

Nestled in the captivating Swiss canton of Valais, the idyllic village of Albinen is faced with a pressing issue—the decline of its population, which now stands at fewer than 250 residents. In response, the Swiss government has taken proactive measures to combat this trend by introducing a relocation program that offers enticing financial incentives to prospective residents.

By choosing to relocate to Albinen, families can qualify for substantial financial benefits. Each adult can receive up to 25,000 Swiss francs (approximately $27,000), while each child is eligible for up to 10,000 francs (around $11,000). These incentives are designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with moving and establishing a new life in this picturesque village.

However, there are certain criteria that must be met to participate in the program. A key requirement of the program is a commitment to purchasing a house in Albinen and making it your primary residence for a minimum of 10 years. Also, to qualify for the program, you must either be a Swiss citizen or hold a permanent residency permit. That means having resided in Switzerland for a period of 12 years, or 5 years with a type B permit. Or getting married to a Swiss citizen and completing the citizen application before the end of the 10-year period. Additionally, prospective residents must be under the age of 45, ensuring that the program attracts individuals and families who can contribute to the village’s growth and vitality for years to come.

Ponga, Spain

Incentive: €3,000 for relocating and an additional €3,000 for each child born or brought into the village

Eligibility Requirements: Must commit to living in Ponga for a minimum of five years

Visa Provision: No

Tucked away in the stunning region of Asturias, a tiny village beckons those seeking a fresh start. Ponga, with its ancient heritage, deep-rooted traditions, and breathtaking climate, presents a unique opportunity to receive payment for making it your new home.

While its beauty and allure are undeniable, Ponga is currently home to only a handful of inhabitants, with less than 800 people residing there, and a mere fraction being under the age of 18. In an effort to revitalize the village and breathe new life into its community, a remarkable offer has been put forth – young couples are eligible to receive €3,000 for relocating, with an additional €3,000 for every child born or brought into the village. However, this offer does come with an important condition. Families must commit to legally binding themselves to live in Ponga for a minimum of five years. It is important to note that a long-stay visa (D visa) is a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit in Spain.

Chile

Incentive: Up to $30,000 in equity-free funding

Eligibility Requirements: Entrepreneurs with a comprehensive business plan.

Visa Provision: One-year visa

Santiago, the vibrant capital of Chile, embodies a bustling metropolis with a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. Entrepreneurs seeking to establish their businesses in this city can benefit from an exceptional program known as Startup Chile. Designed to provide funding and support, this initiative has garnered significant acclaim for its generous incentives and inclusive approach. With up to $20 million CLP (around $30,000) in equity-free funding and a one-year visa, entrepreneurs can start their entrepreneurial journey with confidence and ambition.

One notable feature of Startup Chile is its commitment to fostering gender equality. Recognizing the importance of empowering women in entrepreneurship, the program ensures that 50% of all approved applications are dedicated to female-led organizations.

Santiago offers an ideal environment for business establishment and growth. The city boasts low taxes and costs, providing entrepreneurs with a competitive advantage and greater financial flexibility. This favorable economic landscape, combined with a rich culture and a supportive government, positions Santiago as a prime destination for ambitious individuals seeking to bring their entrepreneurial dreams to fruition. With a track record of successfully financing over a thousand businesses, Chile’s government has demonstrated its commitment to nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Onward to New Horizons

If you’re considering relocation and happen to be a remote worker or self-employed, there are numerous places that will pay you to move there with enticing incentives. However, it is essential to note that many of these programs come with a requirement to establish long-term residency. Therefore, it becomes crucial to carefully consider factors such as the cost of living, available social activities, and your personal preferences before deciding if a particular city or state is the ideal destination for you.

For those seeking the epitome of seamless travel, Blacklane stands ready as your ultimate travel companion. Our world-class airport transfer services guarantee that your journey commences and concludes with elegance, whether you’re embarking on an adventure from an airport or bidding adieu to a destination. Embrace the incentives, navigate the decisions, and let the adventure unfold. 

A Summary of Places That Will Pay You to Move There

1. West Virginia, USA
2. Alaska, USA
3. Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
4. Topeka, Kansas
5. New Zealand
6. Ireland
7. Candela, Italy
8. Albinen, Switzerland
9. Ponga, Spain
10. Chile