Sicily is introducing a tax incentive aimed at attracting new residents and revitalizing its territory, especially in smaller towns. The regional government has launched a tax refund of up to 50% for those who decide to move their residence to the island, including people coming from abroad.
The initiative targets a wide range of individuals – employees, entrepreneurs, professionals, and retirees – and is designed to make cities like Palermo and Catania more appealing, while also supporting less populated areas. In municipalities with fewer than 5,000 residents, the benefit can increase to 60%, encouraging repopulation in inland communities.
To qualify, applicants must genuinely settle in Sicily by purchasing a home or renovating an existing property. This requirement is meant to generate tangible benefits for the local housing and construction sectors. In addition, participants must keep their residence in the region until at least the end of the following year, preventing short-term relocations.
The refund is calculated based on taxes actually paid and can reach up to €100,000 per year for a maximum of three years. The measure aims to attract skilled individuals – including young people and digital nomads – and strengthen the regional economy.
According to the Sicilian Region, the plan could effectively pay for itself, as new residents would contribute tax revenues that may exceed the cost of the incentives, creating a positive economic cycle for the island.
