You Could Receive $15,000 for Relocating to Sardinia—Here’s How

With its rich history spanning thousands of years, exquisite cuisine, and stunning art and architecture, it's no wonder that many aspire to live in Italy. Recently, the government has made this dream more attainable through visas designed to attract foreign retirees and the sale of homes in specific areas for as little as one euro. Now, an Italian island is even incentivizing people to move there.

Sardinia, located off Italy's western coast, is offering newcomers 15,000 euros (approximately US$14,976 based on current exchange rates, which are highly favorable for the dollar at this moment) to settle on its shores. As the second largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily), it is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coastlines, and unique local cuisine (expect dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients, like prickly pears and fresh lobster). Travelers can reach Sardinia via any of its three airports (Cagliari, the capital, has the most flight options) or by ferry.

Eligibility Criteria

There are specific conditions attached to this initiative. The funds must be used for purchasing or renovating a residence in towns with populations under 3,000, such as Galtellì (close to Mount Tuttavista, a hiking hotspot) and Calasetta (famous for its white sandy beaches). Applicants are also required to commit to full-time residency—the financial support is not meant for vacation properties.

The reason behind the scheme's inception

Sardinia’s rural areas have seen a decline in population over recent decades. This initiative aims to revitalize the countryside and provide an economic uplift to these smaller communities.

Sardinian President Christian Solinas stated in a press release: “We have established the necessary conditions for young people to remain and contribute to the economic development of our most vulnerable regions. Genuine growth hinges on enhancing our territories, particularly in disadvantaged areas, which requires innovative repopulation policies.”

The government has allocated 105 million euros for this initiative. Since not all applicants may use the entire sum (the grant cannot exceed 50 percent of the property purchase and renovation cost), over 7,000 individuals or families could potentially take part. Applicants can receive a maximum of 15,000 euros as a one-time, non-repayable grant, which home buyers must apply for at their new municipality's main office. However, they must first register their residence in Sardinia within 18 months of arrival to qualify for assistance.

Be aware that navigating Italy’s notoriously complex bureaucracy can be quite challenging, making the application process for this fund potentially difficult (especially for non-Italian speakers). Nonetheless, for a shot at la dolce vita, it might be worth pursuing.