In a bid to revitalize its picturesque yet underpopulated countryside, the regional government of Extremadura in Spain has announced a new initiative that could see remote workers paid up to £12,629 to relocate to the stunning Ambroz Valley.
This program, known as “Live in Ambroz,” aims to attract digital nomads to this serene part of Spain, offering a financial incentive in exchange for a commitment to reside in the region for at least two years.
Ambroz Valley, nestled within the province of Extremadura, is a hidden gem known for its lush forests, charming villages, and scenic mountain views.
The region’s tranquil environment is complemented by its rich cultural history, with highlights including the ancient Roman spa at Baños de Montemayor and the celebrated Silver Greenway, a trail with roots tracing back to the Bronze Age.
The valley is also recognized for its sustainable tourism practices, having been awarded the European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) Award in 2019.
Despite its natural beauty and historical significance, the Ambroz Valley faces the challenges of “Empty Spain”, a phenomenon where rural areas suffer from population decline as residents migrate to urban centers.
Hervás, the most populous town in the valley, has just under 4,000 residents, while other villages like Segura de Toro have as few as 181 inhabitants.
The new digital nomad program is part of a broader effort to reverse this trend by attracting new residents who can contribute to the local economy and community life.
Under the “Live in Ambroz” initiative, up to 200 eligible remote workers can receive grants of up to €15,000 (approximately £12,629) to cover housing and other relocation expenses.
The exact amount of the grant depends on factors such as the applicant’s age, gender, and the population size of the town they choose to move to. Women under 30 relocating to smaller towns will receive the highest grants.
To be eligible, applicants must not have lived in Extremadura in the past six months, must be legal residents of Spain with a foreign identity number, and must work remotely in the tech sector.
The application process is set to open in mid-September, with successful applicants expected to integrate into their new communities, fostering connections and potentially sparking new local economic activity.
This program is part of a larger movement in Spain to counteract the depopulation of rural areas while also managing overtourism in urban centres.
If successful, “Live in Ambroz” could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, breathing new life into Spain’s beautiful but often overlooked rural areas.
