Laurence Dollimore
AN often overlooked region of Spain is offering digital nomads up to €15,000 to move there.
The programme is part of a plan to battle depopulation and help provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.
The region in question is Extremadura, a large autonomous community that borders Portugal and offers wild nature reserves, stunning mountains and a capital city packed with Roman ruins.
In fact this year, it has often been cited as a must-visit for people who want to explore the ‘real Spain’ without the hassle of hordes of tourists.
And it seems the region is hoping to embrace the benefits of the industry with open arms.
Extremadura is one of the country’s least-developed regions, where unemployment remains at 17.9% – some 6% above the national average.
In a bid to attract young talent, the government of the region has set aside €2million to spend on enticing digital nomads to relocate there.
And if that isn’t convincing enough, the cost of living in cities like Badajoz, in Extremadura, is around 30% lower than Madrid, according to Numbeo.
While it may not have the best transport infrastructure, the regional government insists its internet coverage is above national average.
The Regional Minister of Economy, Employment and Digital Transformation, Guillermo Santamaria, said: “Extremadura offers a high quality of life. It is a natural paradise with exceptional gastronomy.
“Attracting these high-skilled professionals with international incomes will have a very positive impact on our economy.
“They will boost local consumption, enrich regional talent and create significant networks and opportunities.”
So who can actually apply and be accepted for the digital nomad grant?
Authorities are looking for highly qualified digital nomads who work in the tech industry.
To meet the criteria, you must be able to work 100% from home and online and commit to staying in Extremadura for a minimum of two years.
The only people who are not eligible are those who have lived in Extremadura in the previous six months.
If you are an EU national, you must be a legal resident in Spain with an NIE. Foreign nationals with a TIE card can also apply.
If you are not from the EU, including the UK, you can still take part in the scheme if you are part of the digital nomad visa programme.
Those who brave the most abandoned towns (less than 5,000 inhabitants), will receive up to €10,000, while everyone else will get up to €8,000.
If those in the first group decide to stay on after the first year, they get another €5,000, while the second group get €4,000 – giving totals of up to €15,000 and €12,000 respectively.
According to reports, people aged 30 and under will be given priority.
You can apply online via the Extremadura General Electronic Access Point.
