If you've dreamed or thought about moving to Italy, Sardinia is offering people €15,000 to move there.
The island – known for its sandy beaches and clear waters – is facing a declining rural population and many young people have moved abroad for work. For this reason, the government has planned 45 million euros in total for the "relocation grant", which will cover 3,000 grants.
To qualify for the grant, you will need to move to a municipality in Sardinia with a population of less than 3,000 inhabitants. The money should also be used to buy or renovate a home. The grant cannot exceed half of the total cost of the home or renovation.
People must live in the new property full-time and must register for permanent residence in Sardinia within 18 months of arrival.
This new strategy is related to the fact that Italy's population is aging. The average age of Italians is 45.7 years – a figure expected to rise to 50.7 by 2050. The problem is particularly acute in rural areas.
Sardinian President Christian Solinas said (via Euronews) that the scheme would encourage young people to stay in Sardinia or move to the island.
We remind you that Sardinia has been designated as one of the five Blue Zones in the world - the places where people live longer.
