Ireland Offers £72,240 Grants to Attract New Residents to Islands

As the winter season approaches, many individuals in the UK are contemplating new beginnings abroad. A unique opportunity has emerged in Ireland, where the government is offering grants of up to £72,240 to encourage people to relocate to remote offshore islands. The initiative, known as the Our Living Islands policy, was launched in 2023 to revitalize communities that have seen a significant decline in population.

The grant is designed for those willing to restore vacant or derelict properties on specific islands. The Irish government aims to attract new residents to its isolated communities along the West Coast, where the population has dwindled to fewer than 3,000 across the eligible islands. This initiative seeks to breathe new life into the nation’s 30 offshore islands, which are not connected to the mainland by bridges and are often cut off by the tide.

Revitalizing Remote Communities

The Our Living Islands policy recognizes the cultural significance of these islands, with the government stating, “These islands are an integral part of the fabric of rural Ireland. Our ambition is to ensure that sustainable, vibrant communities can continue to live – and thrive – on the offshore islands for many years to come.”

To qualify for the grant, properties must meet specific criteria: they should be vacant or derelict, constructed before 2007, and unoccupied for at least two years. Importantly, applicants do not need to be Irish citizens; however, the renovated property must serve as a residential home for a minimum of 10 years, prohibiting its use as a holiday home or for short-term rentals.

One of the most notable locations included in this initiative is the Aran Islands, consisting of three islands—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—situated at the mouth of Galway Bay. These islands offer a scenic and tranquil lifestyle, making them attractive options for those seeking a slower pace of life.

The second window for grant applications has been postponed, with the new timeline set from November 14, 2025 to December 31, 2025. This extension provides prospective applicants additional time to consider this life-changing opportunity.

The initiative not only aims to increase the population of these islands but also to enhance the local economy through property renovations and new residents. By investing in these communities, the Irish government hopes to foster a sense of belonging and sustainability in areas that have been historically underserved.

For those dreaming of a new life in a picturesque setting, Ireland’s Our Living Islands policy presents a compelling chance to make that dream a reality.