The mayor of Ollolai, a small town in Sardinia, has received significant interest from Americans looking to escape Donald Trump by purchasing homes for as little as €1. This initiative aims to combat depopulation and attract digital nomads, offering various accommodation options, including free homes for certain professionals. The project has garnered 30,000 requests and aims to revitalize the town by creating investment and jobs, while also promoting the area's natural beauty and cultural richness.
Ollolai, a village in Sardinia, Italy, is offering $1 homes to attract American expats, particularly after the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The initiative aims to revitalize the village by encouraging Americans to relocate, offering three types of accommodations: free temporary homes for digital nomads, one-euro homes needing renovation, and ready-to-occupy houses up to $106,000. The scheme has generated significant interest, with over 35,000 inquiries, mostly from the U.S.
Portugal's right-leaning government has revoked the "manifestation of interest" clause in its visa rules, which had allowed non-EU migrants to obtain residency after a year of social security payments. This move is part of a broader crackdown on immigration, affecting digital nomads and low-skill workers, while prioritizing individuals from Portuguese-speaking countries, students, and high-skill workers. The policy shift aims to address housing market issues but has sparked controversy over its impact on the economy and migrant contributions.
The Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of digital nomads have led to a surge in Americans moving to Mexico City for a more affordable and laid-back lifestyle. While many Americans enjoy the communal atmosphere and cultural richness of the city, locals express concerns about rising rent prices, displacement, and the changing fabric of their neighborhoods. Some Black Americans feel safer and more included in Mexico City, but the region still faces high crime rates. The influx of foreigners has sparked gentrification, with rent prices increasing and short-term rentals proliferating. The housing crisis in Mexico City is exacerbated by the need for over 800,000 new housing units annually. The Mexican government is urged to find a way for newcomers and locals to coexist peacefully and responsibly.
Canada has launched a new immigration program for digital nomads, allowing them to live and work remotely in the country. Under the program, digital nomads can apply for a temporary work permit and stay in Canada for up to three years if they secure a job with a Canadian employer. The initiative aims to address the labor shortage in key tech occupations and attract skilled workers who may be leaving for higher-paid opportunities in other countries. However, applicants should be prepared for potential delays in visa processing and consider long-term settlement options, as not all countries offer a clear path to permanent citizenship within digital nomad schemes.
