Spain is offering Irish people thousands to move to picturesque village in 2026

Bask in the 24C April heat!

That's right, while estimates suggest Irish people take 2.5 million trips to Spain each year, you could actually get paid to live there instead!

That's because one region in Spain is offering the chance to anybody to relocate to some of its quieter villages to help pump some life back into these communities suffering from our globalising world.

It is a story that many will have heard before, about southern European villages and towns being gutted of youth and modern skills as people make their way to cities for higher education and ultimately work.

This has left many villages in places like Italy and Spain which have been effectively abandoned.

Even Switzerland has it's own version of the scheme if you prefer the cold mountains over the Mediterranean sun.

Well, if you like the idea of living in a picturesque Spanish village, the quiet of being one of only a few people in a neighbourhood, or just love a freebie, then listen up!

It's inviting people to apply for grants of up to €15,000 to live in the area for at least two years.

This offer didn't go unnoticed, with one Instagram page, @madrid.explore, sharing the offer too.

It wrote: "Looking for a change of scenery? Spain has a crazy offer for you!

"In 2026, Spain will pay you to move to an empty village! This initiative is designed to boost rural populations and help revitalize towns that have been abandoned.

"If you’re looking for a unique living experience, this is your chance to start fresh while being supported by the government."

People were quick to react in the comment section.

One person said: "Where is the link to sign up? Gracias."

Another commented: "My bags are packed."

Meanwhile, one user put: "Yes. I'm interested."

Hasta luego!