Getting married isn’t just about love and commitment, it could also mean extra cash in your pocket, depending on where you live.Some governments around the world offer financial incentives to couples who tie the knot, aiming to tackle issues like declining populations and ageing communities.
Here are five countries where saying “I do” comes with a bonus.
1. Japan: Wedding subsidies for newlyweds
Japan offers financial help for couples starting their married life. Some local governments provide lump-sum payments or subsidies to help cover wedding costs, all in a bid to encourage more marriages and address the nation’s population decline.
2. Singapore: Cash bonuses and housing grants
Singapore is famous for its “Marriage and Parenthood Package,” which gives couples cash incentives through the “Baby Bonus” scheme. Couples can also get grants to help them buy a home as they settle into married life.
3. Italy: Grants for rural living
In Italy, marrying in a quiet, rural town could earn you financial support. These grants are meant to attract young couples to underpopulated areas, helping to revitalise communities while offering couples a peaceful start to their marriage.
4. Hungary: Loans that turn into gifts
Hungary’s unique approach involves giving newlyweds an interest-free loan of €30,590. If the couple has three children, the entire loan is forgiven, turning it into a financial gift as part of the country’s effort to boost its population
.5. China: Bonuses for marrying young
China is encouraging earlier marriages with cash bonuses for young couples. Brides aged 25 or younger are eligible for these perks, which aim to support families and combat the country’s declining birth rate.
Is love enough?
While these incentives might be appealing, they don’t always address the bigger issues couples face, such as high living costs or job pressures. Still, for those already planning to get married, these perks can be a welcome financial boost. If you’re considering walking down the aisle, these five countries might make it worth your while—both emotionally and financially.
