Greece expands relocation program with reforms to address demographic decline
Greece’s Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family has announced the expansion of its Relocation Program, introducing targeted reforms after initial implementation challenges, as part of a broader strategy to counter the country’s demographic decline.
The program, which was initially launched in municipalities of the Evros regional unit, will now be extended to selected municipalities and municipal units in Drama, Florina, Kilkis, Serres, Pella, and Kastoria, according to Social Cohesion and Family Minister Domna Michailidou.
Revised Incentives and Upfront Financial Support
Speaking on ACTION 24’s “Morning Zone”, Michailidou said the revised framework is the result of consultations with members of parliament, regional governors, and mayors, and is reflected in the provisions of a new draft bill submitted by the ministry.
Under the updated scheme:
All beneficiaries will receive a uniform grant of €10,000, regardless of the population size of the destination area,
50% of the amount will be paid in advance, before relocation, to help cover initial settlement costs.
Inclusion of Regional Capitals for the First Time
The minister emphasized that, for the first time, the program will include regional capitals in border areas experiencing population decline.
“Regional capitals offer more employment opportunities and better access to services,” Michailidou noted, describing their inclusion as a key improvement aimed at increasing the program’s effectiveness and sustainability.
Lessons From the First Phase in Meriç
In a separate interview with SKAI Radio 100.3, Michailidou openly acknowledged the difficulties encountered during the program’s initial rollout.
“In practice, only two applications met the required criteria,” she said, explaining that the majority of applicants were already residing in the target areas.
She stressed that the relocation grant is intended as financial support, not a standalone incentive, and clarified that the program’s core condition remains unchanged: applicants must demonstrate continuous residence in a different region for the past five years, ensuring genuine population movement
Implementation Timeline and Possible Budget Increase
The Meriç program is already underway, while the expanded and revised framework is expected to come into force in March 2026.
Despite the initially limited budget, the government has signaled openness to increasing funding. Michailidou revealed that discussions have taken place at the highest political level, including with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to further adapt the program to demographic needs.
“The program will be calibrated to respond to demographic challenges,” she said, adding that viable relocation applications will be supported.
