Are you dreaming of starting or expanding your family but are concerned about the financial burden? Some locations around the world are so eager to boost their populations that they’re willing to pay new parents to settle down and raise children there. These family-friendly perks include direct cash payments, tax breaks, and housing subsidies.
Let’s explore seven places offering financial incentives for families, helping you consider options that might align with your future plans.
1. Albinen, Switzerland
Financial Incentive: This picturesque Swiss village offers adults under 45 approximately $25,000 per person (and about $10,000 per child) to move there.
Requirements: You must commit to living in Albinen for at least 10 years, invest a minimum of $200,000 in property, and be a Swiss citizen or have a permanent residence permit.
According to Switzerland’s Federal Statistical Office, the country’s birth rate has declined to 1.5 children per woman, well below the replacement rate of 2.1, making population growth a priority in many Swiss municipalities.
2. Mishima, Japan
Financial Incentive: This town provides new parents with 100,000 yen ($900) for their first child, 150,000 yen ($1,350) for the second, and a substantial 400,000 yen ($3,600) for the third child.
Requirements: You must register as a resident and remain in the area while raising your children.
Japan faces one of the world’s most severe demographic challenges, with a fertility rate of just 1.3 births per woman according to the World Bank, explaining why many Japanese towns offer such generous incentives.
3. Candela, Italy
Financial Incentive: This charming southern Italian town offers up to €2,000 ($2,350) to relocate there.
Requirements: You need to become a permanent resident, rent or buy a house, and have a job with a minimum salary of €7,500 per year.
Italy’s birth rate hit a historic low of 1.27 children per woman according to Eurostat, with many rural communities struggling to maintain their populations.
4. Maine Student Loan Forgiveness Program, USA
Financial Incentive: While not a direct payment, Maine offers significant student debt relief through tax credits for graduates who live and work in the state.
Requirements: You have to be a recent graduate who lives and works in Maine and has student loan debt.
A study by the Economic Innovation Group found that Maine is among the states with the oldest populations in the U.S., with a median age of 44.9 years.
5. Saskatchewan Graduate Retention Program, Canada
Financial Incentives: For graduates who reside and work in Saskatchewan, this Canadian province offers tuition rebates of up to $20,000 CAD.
Requirements: You must have graduated from an eligible post-secondary program and file tax returns in Saskatchewan.
Statistics Canada data shows that Saskatchewan has been working to reverse population decline, with incentives helping to increase the province’s growth rate to 6.3% between 2016 and 2021.
How to Choose the Right Location
When considering these incentives, look beyond the financial benefits. Evaluate:
- Employment opportunities
- Quality of education and healthcare
- Cultural and language differences
- Long-term residence requirements
- Cost of living compared to the incentive value
The Final Note
Financial incentives can make starting a family more affordable, but they’re just one factor to consider when choosing where to settle down. Research thoroughly, possibly visit potential locations, and consider consulting with immigration experts if looking internationally.
Would you consider relocating your family for financial incentives? Which of these locations interests you most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQ: Places That Pay You to Start a Family
Q: Are these incentives available to international applicants?
A: It varies by location. Some programs are open to anyone willing to relocate, while others have citizenship or residency requirements. Always check the specific eligibility criteria.
Q: Are these incentives taxable?
A: Tax treatment varies by country and program. Consult with a tax professional familiar with the specific location to understand potential tax implications.
Q: Do these places offer a good quality of life for families?
A: Many offer an excellent quality of life with good schools, healthcare, and natural surroundings, but research thoroughly, as rural locations may have limited amenities.
