Pretoria residents looking for a fresh start abroad may be interested to know that several countries are offering financial incentives to attract new residents and breathe life into underpopulated towns and struggling local economies.

Let’s take a look at four of these countries:

Italy:

Several Italian regions offer financial incentives to revitalise small towns and combat population decline. In Calabria, individuals under 40 could receive around R560,000 (about $30,358) to move to one of nine villages with fewer than 2,000 people — provided they relocate within 90 days and either start a business that benefits the local economy or take up an in-demand job. Similarly, in Presicce-Acquarica in southern Italy, families are offered up to R600,000 (about $32,526) to buy a home and make it their primary residence.

Switzerland:

Switzerland is tackling a population decline in its smaller towns, and the village of Albinen is leading the way with a generous offer to attract new residents. If you’re under 45 and willing to settle there for at least 10 years, you could receive around R520,000 (25,000 Swiss francs) per adult and R208,000 (10,000 francs) per child.

The catch? You must invest at least R4.2 million (200,000 francs) in local property. While the upfront cost is high, the chance to live in a breathtaking Alpine village with one of the world’s most stable economies and highest living standards could be well worth it — especially for Pretoria residents dreaming of a life in Europe.

Greece:

Greece, known for its breathtaking islands, ancient ruins, and sunny Mediterranean climate, is also facing a population decline. In response, the country has rolled out incentives to attract new residents — especially to its smaller, underpopulated islands. One standout example is Antikythera, which offers free housing, food, and a monthly stipend of around R10,000 to families with three or more children willing to relocate and settle on the island.

Chile:

From the Atacama Desert to the peaks of Patagonia, Chile is not just a dream destination for adventurers — it’s also a rising hotspot for entrepreneurs.

Through its Startup Chile program, the country has been offering grants to attract global talent and boost its tech scene. Pretoria residents with big business ideas could benefit from the “Build” initiative, which offers 10 million Chilean pesos (around R260,000), a co-working space, and a one-year resident visa to help launch and grow innovative startups in South America’s emerging tech hub.

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