Get Paid To Move To Spain
Spain isn’t just a place to visit. It’s a place that will pay you to live there. That’s right—certain regions of Spain are offering financial incentives of up to €15,000 to remote workers and digital nomads who relocate. Think of it as a “reverse vacation fund.” Instead of draining your wallet, Spain is refilling it.
But why is Spain doing this? The answer is simple: rural depopulation. While cities like Madrid and Barcelona are thriving, smaller regions are struggling to keep residents. Extremadura, one of Spain’s lesser-known but stunningly beautiful regions, has come up with a solution—pay people to move in. And not just anyone. They want digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs who can inject life (and euros) into their local economy.
If you work remotely and have ever dreamed of living in Spain, this is your chance. Affordable housing. Slower pace of life. A culture that values siestas as much as success. And now, a financial boost to make it all happen. Let’s break down exactly how you can qualify, apply, and start a new life in Spain—with Spain footing the bill.
Want to get paid to move to Spain as a remote worker?
Recently, there’s been a lot of news about foreigners not being welcomed in many parts of Spain due to overtourism and pricing out the local population.
But one region of Spain is still keen to host foreigners—more specifically remote workers. In fact, it is offering financial aid to those who relocate there!
Extremadura, an autonomous community bordering Portugal, is one of Spain’s lesser-visited regions. It has one of the lowest populations in Spain and is among the least-developed regions, with the country’s lowest GDP per capita.
To bolster both the population and the economy, authorities in Extremadura have earmarked €2 million to aid the relocation of 200 remote workers and digital nomads to the region.
The regional government of Extremadura is offering digital nomads up to €15,000 to move to Spain and settle in this scenic, tranquil region.
As well as receiving financial aid, remote workers can enjoy a lower cost of living compared to other areas in Spain, such as Madrid, where meals, public transport, and utilities typically cost around 30% more.
Although Extremadura may lack extensive transport infrastructure, it boasts above-average fibre optic and mobile coverage—an essential feature for any remote worker. And as digital nomads know, stable internet trumps everything else a location has to offer 😉
Who Can Apply for Extremadura’s Digital Nomad Grants?
Extremadura is targeting remote workers who are highly qualified professionals in the tech industry.
Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:
You must be able to work completely remotely and online.
Applicants must not have lived in Extremadura in the previous six months.
Both Spanish residents and foreign nationals can apply:
Foreign nationals must hold a Spanish foreign identity number (NIE) or non-EU TIE card.
Non-EU nationals must be part of Spain’s digital nomad visa scheme.
How Much Funding Will Digital Nomads Receive?
The financial aid varies based on certain criteria:
€10,000 for women, young people under 30, and those relocating to towns with populations under 5,000.
€8,000 for others moving to the region.
After two years, those in the first category will receive a second payment of €5,000 if they stay another year, while others will be given €4,000.
When Can Digital Nomads Apply for the Extremadura Grant?
The date when applications open has not yet been confirmed but will be announced in the Official Gazette of Extremadura.
Authorities say applications will stay open until all the funds to cover around 200 digital nomads have been allocated which will be no less than a month but no more than a year.
Why Should Remote Workers Move to Spain?
Extremadura offers a unique opportunity for remote workers seeking a low-cost lifestyle in a serene, scenic environment. With its emphasis on attracting digital nomads, this region combines affordable living, financial incentives, and reliable internet connectivity—essential for thriving as a remote worker.
Benefits of Living in Extremadura
Extremadura offers an ideal setting for digital nomads looking for a balance between work and quality of life. Key benefits include:
• Lower Cost of Living
Compared to major Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, Extremadura offers significantly lower housing, food, and transportation costs.
• High-Speed Internet and Co-Working Spaces
Despite its rural charm, Extremadura provides strong fiber-optic internet coverage and an increasing number of co-working spaces.
• Rich Cultural and Natural Environment
The region is known for its medieval architecture, lush landscapes, and outdoor activities, making it an excellent place for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
• Tax Incentives for Digital Nomads
Spain’s special expat tax regime allows qualifying remote workers to pay a reduced tax rate of 24% on income up to €600,000 per year.
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa
For non-EU nationals, Spain offers a digital nomad visa, allowing you to legally reside in the country while working remotely.
Eligibility for the Digital Nomad Visa
• Must work for a non-Spanish company or have international freelance clients.
• Must have at least three years of work experience or a relevant university degree.
• Must show proof of stable income (€2,520/month for individuals, with higher requirements for families).
• Must have private health insurance.
How to Apply
1. Gather Required Documents
• Employment contract or proof of freelance income.
• Background check proving no criminal record in the last five years.
• Proof of health insurance coverage.
• Bank statements demonstrating financial stability.
2. Submit Application
You can apply for the visa either from your home country (via the Spanish consulate) or from Spain on a tourist visa.
3. Receive Visa Approval
If approved, you’ll initially receive a one-year visa, which can be converted into a residency permit for up to five years.
Conclusion
Getting paid to move to Spain might sound like a fantasy, but it’s very real. The grant money is there. The towns are waiting. The process is straightforward—if you meet the criteria, you could be sipping Spanish wine in your new home while your old colleagues battle rush hour traffic.
But this opportunity won’t last forever. These grants have a limited budget, and applications will close once funds run out. If you’re even slightly interested, now is the time to act. Research your eligibility. Prepare your documents. Keep an eye on official announcements.
Moving abroad is a big decision. But if you’re already working remotely, why not work from a place where the sun shines 300 days a year, the cost of living is lower, and the government literally pays you to be there? If that’s not a win-win, what is?
Need a remote job so you can be paid to move to Spain?
*This week’s article is credited to Euronews
This week’s article is sponsored by Teacher’s Friend. Fulfill your dream of a remote life! Travel the world while making a difference! Teaching English abroad or online opens doors to remote work opportunities. Discover how to get started with Teacher’s Friend.
FAQ
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Yes, some rural areas in Spain offer incentives to attract new residents.
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It varies by region, but some villages offer up to €3,000 and other benefits.
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It depends on your lifestyle, but expect to need at least €10,000–€20,000 for initial costs.
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Yes, Greece offers families incentives, including €500 per month, to relocate there.