Have you ever dreamed of living in the Italian Alps, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage? Now, that dream could become a reality—and you might even get paid to make it happen. Nestled in the heart of northern Italy, Trentino, officially the Autonomous Province of Trento, is offering an incredible opportunity for newcomers to settle in its picturesque small towns. With grants of up to €100,000 to purchase and renovate properties, this region is rolling out the red carpet for those seeking a quieter, more authentic way of life. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what makes Trentino special, how to become a resident through this unique incentive program, and what you can expect from life in this alpine paradise.
What Is Trentino?
Trentino is a gem in the Italian Alps, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and high quality of life. This autonomous province is home to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, serene lakes like Garda, and charming valleys such as Val di Non and Val di Sole. Beyond its landscapes, Trentino boasts a unique cultural blend of Italian and Austrian influences, a legacy of its historical ties to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Think cozy villages with stone houses, hearty dishes like canederli (dumplings) and polenta, and a warm community spirit.
But Trentino isn’t just about scenery and tradition. It’s also a region tackling depopulation in its smaller towns—some of which have more abandoned homes than residents. To address this, the local government has launched an ambitious residency incentive program, making it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate to Italy.
Understanding the Trentino Residency Incentive Program
The Offer: Up to €100,000 to Call Trentino Home
In a bold move to revitalize its rural communities, Trentino is offering financial grants of up to €100,000 to new residents. This initiative targets 33 towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants, where population decline has left a mark. The program, backed by a €10 million fund over two years, aims to attract at least 100 newcomers, breathing new life into these areas and boosting the local construction industry.
Here’s how the grant breaks down:
- Purchase Grant: Up to €20,000 to help buy a property.
- Renovation Grant: Up to €80,000 for renovations, covering about 40% of eligible costs (capped at €200,000 total renovation expenses).
This isn’t a free handout—applicants will need to invest their own funds too. For example, if renovations cost the full €200,000, you’d contribute up to €120,000, plus the purchase price beyond the €20,000 grant. Still, this substantial support sets Trentino apart from other Italian schemes like the one-euro home programs, which often come with higher risks and costs.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
The program is primarily aimed at Italian citizens, including those living abroad, as a way to bring people back to their roots or attract new residents to the region. However, there’s some indication that it might extend to EU citizens or those with legal residency rights in Italy—details are still being finalized. One clear restriction: if you’re under 45 and already living in Trentino, you’re not eligible. The focus is on fresh faces to invigorate these small towns.
Conditions: The Commitment
To secure the grant, you’ll need to commit to one of two options:
- Live in the Property: Make it your primary residence for at least 10 years.
- Rent to a Local: Lease it to a Trentino resident at a moderate rate for a decade.
Short-term vacation rentals, like Airbnb, are off the table—the goal is long-term community building. You can purchase and renovate up to three properties, but each must meet these residency requirements. If you don’t stick to the deal, you may have to repay the grant, so it’s a serious commitment.
Why Choose Trentino?
A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds, stepping outside your renovated stone cottage, and gazing at the snow-capped Dolomites. Trentino is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering:
- Hiking and Skiing: Trails and slopes for all levels.
- Mountain Biking: Rugged paths through stunning scenery.
- Lakeside Relaxation: Time by Lake Garda or smaller alpine lakes.
A Rich Cultural Tapestry
Trentino’s blend of Italian and Austrian heritage shines through in its food, architecture, and festivals. Savor local wines from the region’s vineyards or join neighbors for a meal featuring traditional recipes. Small towns like Vermiglio in Val di Sole offer a peaceful, authentic vibe, where cowbells and rustling leaves set the soundtrack.
Quality of Life
Trentino consistently ranks high for livability in Italy, with excellent healthcare, education, and a life expectancy above the national average. It’s a place where a few new families can make a big difference, as Ileana Olivo, director of the initiative, noted: “Even just five families can change everything.”
The Catch?
Of course, it’s not all idyllic. Living in a remote town might mean fewer shops, limited nightlife, or a longer drive to urban amenities. Non-Italian speakers may face language barriers, though tourist areas often have English speakers. The 10-year commitment is also a big decision—make sure this lifestyle fits your long-term plans.
How to Become a Resident of Trentino
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm you meet the basic criteria:
- Italian citizenship (or possibly EU citizenship/residency rights).
- Not currently living in Trentino if under 45.
Step 2: Stay Updated
As of May 2025, the program is in its final approval stages, with applications expected to open soon. Check the official Trentino government website regularly for the latest details. The list of 33 eligible towns has been finalized, and the launch is imminent.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
While specifics are pending, you’ll likely need:
- Proof of Eligibility: Passport, residency documents, etc.
- Property Plan: Details on the home you’ll buy and renovate, with cost estimates.
- Commitment Statement: Agreement to the 10-year residency rule.
Given the program’s appeal, act fast once it opens—competition could be stiff.
Step 4: Make the Move
Once approved, purchase your property, start renovations, and settle in. You’ll be part of a broader trend in Italy to revive rural areas, joining regions like Calabria and Puglia in offering relocation incentives—but with Trentino’s unique alpine twist.
Living in Trentino: What to Expect
Picture this: You wake to crisp mountain air, spend your day hiking or working remotely with a Dolomite view, then unwind with a glass of local wine among newfound friends. Life here offers:
- Pros:
- Peaceful, nature-rich living.
- A tight-knit community eager to welcome newcomers.
- High-speed internet in some areas for remote work.
- Cons:
- Potential isolation from city conveniences.
- Adjusting to a slower pace and possibly a new language.
By moving here, you’re not just gaining a home—you’re helping preserve a way of life. Your presence could support local businesses, schools, and traditions on the brink of fading.
Conclusion: Is Trentino Right for You?
Trentino’s €100,000 residency incentive is a rare chance to live in Italy’s alpine heartland, with financial support to make it feasible. It’s not without challenges—significant investment, a decade-long commitment, and rural living—but the rewards could be transformative: a stunning home, a vibrant community, and a front-row seat to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, keep an eye on Trentino’s official updates and start planning. Your Italian dream might be closer than you think!
