Imagine being paid to live in one of the world’s most scenic and peaceful places—an island off the coast of Ireland, surrounded by natural beauty, fresh air, and tranquility. This dream is becoming a reality, thanks to a new initiative by the Irish government. The program, popularly dubbed as “Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home”, is designed to revive rural island life, support local communities, and promote sustainable living.
As more people seek meaningful lifestyles away from urban hustle, Ireland is opening its doors—and offering generous financial incentives. This article provides a complete guide to understanding the program, how it works, its pros and cons, and available alternatives.
What is the Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program?
The Irish government launched this scheme under the Our Living Islands initiative, aimed at repopulating and revitalizing more than 30 offshore inhabited islands in Ireland. These islands, though rich in history and culture, have seen a dramatic decline in population over the decades due to urban migration.
To reverse this trend, the government is offering up to €84,000 (approximately $90,000 USD) in grants to individuals or families who are willing to buy and renovate vacant homes on these islands. The purpose is to attract remote workers, young families, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to island life and community development.
This is not a salary but a housing grant, provided under Ireland’s broader Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, which has been extended to island properties.
How Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program Works
The process to participate in the program is simple, but it involves several steps and conditions:
1. Choose an Eligible Island
The scheme applies to more than 30 remote islands that are not connected to the mainland by bridges. Some well-known islands include:
Inis Mór (Aran Islands)
Bere Island (Cork)
Clare Island (Mayo)
Inishbofin (Galway)
2. Find a Vacant Property
Applicants must choose a vacant or derelict home that has been uninhabited for at least two years.
3. Apply for the Refurbishment Grant
Once a property is selected, apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant under the “Our Living Islands” scheme:
€70,000 for renovating a derelict property
€50,000 for non-derelict vacant homes
Additional top-ups are available for energy efficiency upgrades under Ireland’s Sustainable Energy Authority (SEAI).
4. Renovate and Move
Once approved, the funds are released in phases. You must complete renovations and move in as your permanent residence.
5. Local Integration
Applicants are encouraged to integrate with the island community and contribute to its social and economic life.
Features of Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program [Completely Detailing]
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | Up to €84,000 (approx. $90,000 USD) |
| Eligible Islands | 30+ remote inhabited islands in Ireland |
| Target Properties | Must be vacant for 2+ years; may be derelict |
| Refurbishment Support | Funds cover roof repairs, plumbing, electrical work, windows, insulation, etc. |
| Energy Efficiency Top-Up | Additional grants available via SEAI |
| Ownership Requirement | You must own the property you renovate |
| Primary Residency | The renovated home must become your main residence |
| Permanent Move Encouraged | Meant for long-term settlers, not vacationers |
| Tourism & Community Benefit | Encourages island economy through small businesses or remote work |
| Application Authority | Local County Councils in conjunction with Irish Department of Rural Affairs |
Pros of Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program [Use Table]
| Pros | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial Assistance | Generous grants reduce the cost of homeownership |
| Peaceful Lifestyle | Live amidst nature, away from city noise |
| Work Remotely | Ideal for digital nomads and remote workers |
| Community Life | Opportunity to be part of a close-knit, supportive island community |
| Preserve Heritage | Help in restoring Ireland’s historic and cultural homes |
| Eco-Friendly | Promotes sustainable and energy-efficient living |
| Property Ownership | Invest in real estate while also receiving government support |
Cons of Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program [Use Table]
| Cons | Details |
|---|---|
| Isolation | Limited social activities and services compared to urban areas |
| Weather Conditions | Irish islands can be windy, rainy, and cold during winters |
| Limited Infrastructure | May lack hospitals, high-speed internet, or public transport |
| Renovation Costs May Exceed Grant | Actual renovation costs could go beyond €84,000 |
| Permanent Residency Requirement | Not suitable for short-term travelers or tourists |
| Slow Bureaucracy | Government approvals and inspections can be time-consuming |
| No Job Guarantee | No employment support included—relies on remote work or entrepreneurship |
Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program Alternatives [Use Table]
| Program | Country | Incentive |
|---|---|---|
| Ponga, Spain | Spain | €3,000 per couple + additional child benefits |
| Albinen Program | Switzerland | Up to $25,000 per adult + $10,000 per child |
| Candela Scheme | Italy | €1 home program with renovation incentives |
| Tochigi Relocation | Japan | $9,000 incentive + childcare support |
| Tulsa Remote Program | USA | $10,000 grant to remote workers relocating to Tulsa, OK |
| Shojin-Project | Japan | Free rural homes for families committed to live long-term |
Ireland will pay you $90,000 to move to a beautiful island home Program
The Irish government’s innovative housing and relocation initiative is more than just a financial grant—it’s an opportunity to embrace a fulfilling, nature-immersed lifestyle while preserving rural heritage. For those seeking peace, affordability, and a chance to escape urban chaos, this program is a rare opportunity to start afresh in a magical setting.
With high-speed internet making remote work possible from anywhere in the world, and governments supporting decentralization, this Irish scheme is part of a global shift toward sustainable rural living.
Ready to Apply?
To begin your application or check eligibility, visit:
👉 https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/our-living-islands/
