If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker in the tech industry, Spain might be calling your name. This month, Extremadura, a region in Spain, has launched an enticing offer for remote workers looking to relocate.
The local government is offering grants of up to €15,000 (approximately $16,703) to individuals willing to move to the area and stay for at least two years.
Grant Details and Application Process
The Extremadura government has allocated €2 million to attract 200 digital nomads and remote workers to the region. This initiative is part of the “Live in Ambroz” program, aimed at revitalizing the Ambroz Valley in Cáceres Province, which has been experiencing a decline in population and services.
Grant Amounts
- Women and those under 30 moving to towns with fewer than 5,000 residents: €10,000 ($11,135)
- Others: €8,000 ($8,908)
- Additional payments after two years for those who stay: €5,000 ($5,568) for women and those under 30; €4,000 ($4,454) for others
Extremadura will disburse the grants in a single transaction, giving recipients the full amount at once. This lump sum payment aims to facilitate a smooth relocation process, covering initial housing, living expenses, and other setup costs for digital nomads and remote workers.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the grant, applicants must not have lived in Extremadura recently, must work remotely in tech, and hold Spanish residency.
- Must not have lived in Extremadura in the past six months.
- Must be a legal resident of Spain with a foreign identity number.
- Must work remotely in the tech industry.
- Non-EU nationals need Spain’s digital nomad visa.
Applications are expected to open in September. Interested individuals can apply online once the application process is available. Successful applicants will be notified within three months.
Application Process
Applications will open in September and can be submitted online. Successful candidates will be notified within three months of application submission.
- Timeline: Applications are expected to open in September 2024.
- Submission: Applications will be submitted online.
- Review: Applicants will be notified of the decision within three months.
- Payment: Successful applicants must register with a municipality in Extremadura and request payment within a month.
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Post-Application Steps
Selected applicants must register with an Extremadura municipality to obtain a padrón certificate, and then request grant payment within a month of registration.
- Register with a municipality in Extremadura and obtain a padrón certificate within three months.
- Request the grant payment within a month of obtaining the certificate.
About Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU remote workers to live and work in Spain. This visa supports Spain’s goal of attracting international talent and boosting local economies. For those interested in relocating to Extremadura, securing this visa is a prerequisite.
Extremadura’s Repopulation Efforts
The “Live in Ambroz” program aims to address the declining population and services in the Ambroz Valley. By offering substantial financial incentives, Extremadura hopes to attract digital nomads and remote workers to contribute to the region’s revitalization.
Final Words
Spain’s Extremadura region is offering a unique opportunity for digital nomads and remote workers with grants of up to €15,000. This initiative not only supports the local economy but also provides an attractive relocation option for tech professionals.