A Spanish Region Offers To Pay Digital Nomads to Relocate

Some parts of Spain desperately want fewer tourists but the region of Extremadura is doing the opposite by offering substantial financial incentives to attract new residents, especially digital nomads.

Located on the border with Portugal, Extremadura is a less-visited and remote region of Spain. Despite its rich cultural heritage, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic cities like Mérida and Cáceres, and the beautiful Monfragüe National Park, the region struggles to attract attention.

With one of the lowest populations and GDP per capita in Spain, as well as a high unemployment rate of 17.6%, Extremadura is eager to grow its population and boost its economy.

How to Qualify for the Grant

To entice remote workers and digital nomads, the regional government of Extremadura has set aside €2 million to help 200 individuals relocate. The grant amounts vary depending on specific criteria:

Women, individuals under 30, and those moving to towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants are eligible for a €10,000 grant.
Others can receive €8,000.

If you stay for two years, you could be eligible for an additional payment:

Those who received €10,000 will get an extra €5,000
Those who received €8,000 will receive an additional €4,000

Extremadura is primarily looking for remote workers who are highly skilled tech professionals, and candidates must be able to work completely remotely.

If you already live in Spain, you are still eligible as long as you have not lived in Extremadura for the previous six months.

Non-EU nationals can apply as long as they hold a nomad visa. If you’re relocating from another Spanish region, you’ll need to provide an original report from the General Treasury of Social Security.

Aside from the financial aid, Extremadura offers a low cost of living. While the region lacks extensive transport infrastructure, it boasts better-than-average fibre optic and mobile coverage.

The exact date for when applications will open is still unknown, but it's anticipated to be around mid-September, following the publication in the Official Gazette of Extremadura.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the official website, and if approved, applicants should receive a response within three months.

A Growing Trend

Extremadura isn’t the only region in Europe using financial incentives to attract new residents.

Spain is also among several European countries offering digital nomad visas, allowing remote workers from around the world to live and work in the country. While other countries like Italy have launched similar visas, none offer the financial perks available in Extremadura.

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