By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
In many parts of the world, falling marriage rates, an ageing population, and shrinking birth rates are becoming serious issues.
In response, some governments aren’t just encouraging people to tie the knot—they’re putting real money and incentives on the table.
Here are five countries offering financial perks to singles who decide to marry, how the programs work, and what lessons they offer:
1. South Korea
South Korea has been facing a rapidly declining birth rate for years, and recently several local governments have started offering financial incentives to newlyweds.
These perks include cash bonuses, support for housing rent, travel subsidies, and other benefits for couples who marry and decide to settle locally.
Conditions usually apply, such as being under a certain age or living in the province for a set number of years.
2. Japan
In Japan, population decline has triggered some creative solutions.
Across different municipalities, couples who get married can access subsidies for relocation, living expenses, or rent.
Particularly in rural areas, there are extra cash incentives for singles who move to those towns, marry, and then choose to stay.
The goal is to revive shrinking communities and make marriage more attainable.
3. Hungary
Hungary’s “Family Protection Action Plan” is one of the most generous in Europe when it comes to supporting marriage and family life.
Newly married couples can take out interest-free loans of up to 10 million forints (around USD 28,000), and if they have children within a specified time, parts—or the full amount—of the loan may be forgiven.
It’s part of Hungary’s broader strategy to boost family formation and population growth.
4. China
As China grapples with a growing gender imbalance and declining marriage rates, some provinces have introduced financial rewards for newlyweds.
These vary depending on location but often include bonuses for marrying early, and occasionally subsidies or benefits for matchmakers who help facilitate marriage.
The idea is to encourage young adults to marry sooner and help balance demographic trends.
5. Iran
Iran also uses government programs to ease the financial burden associated with marriage.
Some of the incentives include land allocations, interest-free loans, and other material benefits.
These initiatives aim to support family stability and encourage singles to marry despite economic challenges.