The Truth Behind Greece’s Relocation Incentives
The idea sounds too good to be true: pack your bags, move to a sun-drenched Greek island, and get paid to live there. But this isn’t a social media myth or viral hoax—it’s a real initiative supported by local governments and communities in Greece. So, what’s the catch? Let’s break down the facts and find out how, why, and where people are actually getting paid to move to Greece.
Why Is Greece Paying People to Relocate?
Like many rural areas across Europe, Greece faces population decline in certain regions—especially remote islands. Young people have moved to cities for work, and villages that once thrived now have only a handful of residents.
To revive these communities, attract new energy, and support the local economy, Greece has launched repopulation programs—some backed by the government, others by the Greek Orthodox Church, and local municipalities.
Where Can You Get Paid to Move?
Antikythera
The most well-known case is Antikythera, a remote island between Crete and the Peloponnese. With fewer than 50 permanent residents, Antikythera offers a unique relocation deal:
€500/month for three years
Free housing
Potential land to cultivate
A chance to start fresh in a quiet, safe, and scenic place
This initiative is primarily aimed at young families, remote workers, or people who can bring valuable skills to the island.
Other Incentives Across Greece
While Antikythera is the headline-grabber, Greece offers a range of tax and financial incentives to attract residents and investors:
🧓 Flat 7% income tax for foreign retirees for up to 15 years
💼 50% income tax reduction for remote workers who relocate to Greece
💶 Non-dom tax regime for high-net-worth individuals with capped annual taxes
🏡 Affordable real estate in villages looking to grow their population
In short, you might not get paid in cash in every case, but you can definitely save big or gain substantial benefits by moving to certain parts of Greece.
What’s the Catch?
Of course, there are some realities to consider:
Most of these opportunities are in remote areas with limited services
You’ll need to commit to long-term relocation, not just a few months
Programs like Antikythera’s are limited in slots and may have eligibility requirements
Internet and infrastructure vary—some places are better suited for remote work than others
But for those looking for a quiet lifestyle, lower cost of living, and meaningful community, these programs offer a life-changing opportunity.
Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?
So, can you really get paid to move to Greece? Yes, but it depends on your situation, goals, and willingness to embrace a slower, more rural lifestyle.
Whether you’re a family seeking safety and nature, a remote worker craving peace and sunshine, or an investor looking for new horizons—Greece might just be the perfect place to start your next chapter.