This Country Will Pay You €20,000 to Move and Live There

Do you dream of starting over in a place where breathtaking mountain views are part of your everyday life? What if you could get paid to live there? Well, that dream could be closer to reality than you think. Switzerland, often ranked as the happiest country in the world, is offering a generous financial incentive to those willing to relocate to one of its Alpine villages.

More specifically, we’re talking about Albinen, a picturesque hamlet tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The Swiss government is offering an impressive 20,000 Swiss Francs (roughly €21,221) for adults under the age of 45 to move to Albinen, along with an additional 10,000 CHF (approximately €10,611) per child. That means a family of four could receive a whopping 40,000 CHF (€42,445) just for moving there.

Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, before you grab your hiking boots and start packing, it’s important to note that this initiative comes with some strings attached — no surprises there.

To qualify, anyone relocating to Albinen must purchase a home worth a minimum of 200,000 CHF (around €212,226). Additionally, they must commit to living in the village for at least ten years and eventually become Swiss citizens. While that may seem like a tall task for some, think of the perks: Swiss citizenship comes with access to one of the most stable and high-quality lifestyles in the world, not to mention those sleek red passports.

Albinen itself is an ideal escape for those who prefer peace and quiet. With a population of just 243, the village offers tranquility, clean air, and stunning Alpine surroundings. Situated at an elevation of 1,300 meters, it provides incredible views of the surrounding valleys without feeling completely remote. For those working remotely, Albinen offers good Wi-Fi, making it easy to keep your current job if it allows for flexible arrangements.

The government’s push stems from efforts to breathe new life into this diminutive, yet charming village. Like many small towns across Europe, Albinen has suffered from depopulation over the years as younger generations move to larger cities for career opportunities. This initiative offers an innovative approach to attract new residents and bolster the local economy.

Living in Switzerland offers incredible benefits. The country consistently ranks highly in global quality-of-life surveys, boasting excellent healthcare, low crime rates, and world-class public transport that seamlessly connects even the most isolated regions. Albinen is no exception, with regular buses linking it to the district capital, Leuk, and larger cities.

Switzerland also leads the charge in sustainable living. For nature lovers, the surrounding area is a winter wonderland filled with hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities. Combine this with Switzerland being one of the safest countries globally (ranking 7th on the Global Peace Index), and Albinen becomes an even more attractive option.

However, potential movers should be mindful of the country’s high cost of living. While salaries in Switzerland are some of the highest in the world, essentials like housing, groceries, and health insurance come at a premium. For example, Numbeo estimates that living costs in Switzerland are about 62% higher than in France and 55% higher than in Germany. Budgeting early will be crucial to making the most of this experience.

Still, for many, the rewards far outweigh the risks. You’re not just moving to a village—you’re joining a culture that values work-life balance, stability, and community. And then, of course, there’s the chocolate.

To get started, interested individuals must contact the Swiss government directly to explore official applications and specific terms of the program. Given Albinen’s charm, plus the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live in one of the world’s most iconic and happiest nations, what’s stopping you?

Your dream life in the Swiss Alps is waiting.