How to Get Paid $16,000 to Move to Spain as a Digital Nomad

While tourist-packed cities like Barcelona and Venice struggle with overcrowding, leading to protests and local frustrations, one lesser-known area in Spain is inviting remote workers with open arms: Extremadura. The local government has set aside €2 million (around $2.2 million) to draw in digital nomads by offering financial support of up to €15,000 (approximately $16,789) per person as an incentive to settle down and work remotely from this quieter part of the country.

As someone who's been living the remote work lifestyle since long before it was labeled as "digital nomadism," the idea of getting paid to move somewhere seems quite unusual to me. Back when I started, it was more about embracing freedom and independence than taking advantage of government-sponsored programs. But seeing how remote work is now being integrated into local development plans is fascinating.

In Extremadura, people under 30 can receive up to €10,000 (around $11,193), while those over 30 can get €8,000 (approximately $8,954). If they choose to stick around for two years, they'll be eligible for additional bonuses: €5,000 for younger participants and €4,000 for older ones. The aim is to counter the area's aging population and lack of economic activity by bringing in new residents who work remotely and can inject fresh energy into the local economy.

 A recent report identified the region as struggling with depopulation and infrastructure issues, which have held back its economic growth.

With a population density of just 26 people per square kilometer, Extremadura is one of Spain's least populated regions, making it a peaceful alternative to busier destinations. In contrast, Barcelona has around 16,000 people packed into the same space. Over the years, many young residents have left the area, leading to an outflow of about 200 people every month.

Starbucks' New CEO Gets to Work From Home as Other Employees are Forced Back to Work

Is this mark of a compassionate leader? I think notcreatingconsciously.medium.com

This initiative isn't unique-similar programs have popped up across Europe, offering financial support to attract new residents. What sets this offer apart is its focus on remote workers, who are more interested in a laid-back lifestyle than urban convenience. Much like Tulsa, Oklahoma's well-known program offering cash incentives to remote professionals, this initiative provides an alternative for those wanting to swap city life for something quieter and more affordable.

For those considering making the move, there are a few conditions to keep in mind. Non-European Union residents need to qualify for Spain's digital nomad visa. Applicants must also choose a village with a population of fewer than 5,000 people and be willing to stay for at least two years. The program is especially targeted at those in tech-related jobs who can prove their ability to work remotely.

The application process is expected to open soon, with the details likely to be published officially by mid-September. With only 200 spots available, anyone interested should prepare to apply quickly.

It's interesting to see governments catching on to the value that remote professionals can bring to a community. As someone who has spent years working remotely across different places, it's clear that the world of location-independent work has evolved in unexpected ways-from a fringe lifestyle to a viable solution for reviving overlooked regions.

Finally, the only problem with accepting an offer like this is, people are leaving the area for a reason, and if you're accustomed to modern lifestyle, living in a rural town might not be the best option for you.

Would you consider this? Let's chat in the comments. 

____________________________________________________

Does the digital nomad lifestyle appeal to you? If so, sign up for Google News Coaching here to learn how to make money from home and possibly become a digital nomad yourself.

---