Five Countries That Pay People to Get Married

As birth rates decline and populations age worldwide, several governments are offering financial incentives to encourage marriage and family formation.

From cash bonuses and housing grants to subsidised loans that can eventually be written off, some countries provide tangible support to newlyweds as part of broader efforts to boost population growth and strengthen communities.

Below are five countries where tying the knot could come with financial rewards.

Japan

Japan has introduced a range of initiatives to encourage young people to marry, addressing one of the world’s lowest birth rates and a rapidly ageing population.

Under government‑backed programmes, certain local authorities offer financial assistance to newly married couples to help cover wedding costs, housing, moving expenses, and the establishment of a new household. In some municipalities, eligible couples receive substantial lump‑sum grants as they begin married life.

These incentives are part of Japan’s broader strategy to tackle demographic challenges and make marriage more financially accessible for younger generations.

Singapore

Singapore has long pursued policies designed to promote marriage and childbearing through its comprehensive Marriage and Parenthood Package.

A prominent benefit is the Baby Bonus Scheme, which provides cash payments and savings support to parents after the birth of a child. Married couples also gain access to housing grants and priority schemes that help them purchase subsidised homes, facilitating the establishment of a family residence.

The city‑state views these incentives as essential tools for supporting young families amid rising living costs and declining fertility rates.

Italy

In parts of Italy, young couples can access financial incentives if they choose to settle in smaller towns and rural communities.

Several regional and local governments have launched grant programmes aimed at reversing population decline in underpopulated areas. These schemes often provide assistance for purchasing homes, renovating properties, or relocating to communities facing depopulation.

For newlyweds seeking a quieter lifestyle, such incentives offer both economic support and the chance to contribute to the revival of historic rural towns that have seen their populations shrink over the years.

Hungary

Hungary operates one of Europe’s most ambitious family‑support programmes.

Under the scheme, newly married couples can apply for an interest‑free loan worth up to €30,590. The programme becomes even more attractive when children are born: portions of the debt can be suspended or reduced after the birth of children, and families with three children may have the entire loan forgiven.

In effect, what begins as a loan can ultimately become a substantial financial gift, reflecting the government’s efforts to encourage larger families and increase the country’s birth rate.

China

China has also begun introducing measures to encourage marriage and childbirth as the country faces a declining population and falling marriage rates.

Some local governments have launched incentive programmes offering cash rewards to couples who marry at younger ages. In certain areas, brides aged 25 or younger may qualify for financial bonuses intended to promote earlier marriage and family formation.

Authorities hope such measures will help reverse demographic trends that have raised concerns about the long‑term impact of a shrinking workforce and ageing population.

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