Sardinia is home to beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. But it could also become a home for some new residents, each being offered €15,000 (£13,000) to move there.
In recent years, many beautiful Italian cities have suffered from depopulation as younger residents move to the country’s cities.
As a result, several areas have fallen into disrepair and many houses are in dire need of renovation.
Sardinia’s brand new program is offering foreigners £13,000 to move to the island. However, they have to spend the money on renovating a house.
The new residents have to choose a home in a Sardinian town with fewer than 3,000 inhabitants.
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Applicants must also live in the city full-time and not use their money to renovate a vacation home.
Sardinia, the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is one of Italy’s most popular holiday destinations.
Stunning towns like Calasetta with white sandy beaches and Galtelli close to hiking trails are offered through the program.
Sardinian President Christian Solinas said: “We have created the conditions for young people to decide to stay and develop the economic fabric of the most vulnerable areas.
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“There can be no growth without a real improvement in the territories, in the interior and in the most disadvantaged areas, which will have to go through new strategies for their repopulation.”
Over £900,000 has been committed to the new project and will be shared amongst the new residents.
It is estimated that around 7,000 families or individuals can benefit from the unique program.
Homebuyers must register their residency in Sardinia and do so within 18 months of arrival.
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Sardinia’s beaches attract visitors from all over the world and are famous for their stunning white sand.
The island’s most famous beach is Spiaggia Rena Bianca, one of Sardinia’s top rated attractions on Tripadvisor.
One visitor wrote: “A wonderful turquoise oasis overlooking Corsica. The water of this beach is simply breathtaking, clear, clean and turquoise blue!
“Highly recommended for perfect swimming conditions!”
Sardinia is not the only Italian region offering the program with options also available in Calabria.
Italy’s one-euro (87 pence) home scheme is popular with many people securing cheap new property.
It’s a serious commitment, however, and new residents must be prepared to oversee significant renovations.
Outside of Italy, Spain, Switzerland and Greece offer programs that pay foreigners to move.
