These Are the 10 Countries with the Best Work-Life Balance

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Employees’ poor welfare have long been an ongoing issue globally, underscoring minimum efforts the governments put into the overall labor policies. In contrast, these countries with the best work-life balance stand as a testament of fulfillment and productivity. As workers get to enjoy the best of both worlds, their outcomes have been nothing short of rewarding. 

Countries with the Best Work Life Balance 

Based on the findings of Remote’s Global Index and various other sources, Ireland and New Zealand are the top-ranking countries with the best work-life balance, offering countless flexibilities for their employees. Other nations on the list also include:

1. New Zealand - 86.87 points 

New Zealand is hailed as a country with the best work life balance in the world, factored by multiple indexes including abundant statutory annual leaves, sufficient paid maternity leaves, and reasonable minimum wage.

More than 5 million people in the country are signed to 32 statutory annual leaves per year, as well as 80-100% sick paid leaves. Atop of these matters, employers of the Kiwi nation generally acknowledge the life of their workers outside the cubicles. 

2. Ireland - 81.17 points 

Falling behind by several points, Ireland has earned global accolades for its work culture, imposing generous maternity leaves and statutory annual leaves. Among many other world’s safest countries, Ireland’s welcoming locals are always preferable. In addition to the outstanding labor welfare, the country enables moderately low corporate tax rates– making it a haven for both workers and organizations.  

3. Belgium - 75.91 points 

Another European pride, Belgium is deemed as the top occupants of the best countries for work-life balance due to its soaring minimum wages and shorter working weeks compared to the rest of the region’s countries. Belgian workers are able to take up to 30 days of statutory annual leave while sick pay and maternity payment rate stay at 80-100%.

4. Germany - 74.65 points 

The third largest economy in the world, Germany, is undoubtedly an exemplary addition to the list– known for their professionalism. The people of this country redefine what it means to work under the smartest arrangements, as reflected in the “German values”. In the last year, the government has been making forward-thinking strides to improve statutory sick pay.  

5. Norway - 74.20 points 

Often cited as one of the countries with the best work life balance, Norway currently has the most generous parental leave across the globe. With mandatory working hours ending at 32.6 hours per week, this European nation emphasizes a functional and fulfilled life in the community.

6. Denmark - 73.76 points 

Offering a total of 35 days of statutory annual leave and 32.5 weekly working hours, Denmark is a place where workload doesn’t intersect with life. The Danes can take as many adventures outside their working station any time of the year, which also increases their happiness levels in general. Thanks to this healthy environment, workers are treated with a high quality of life at all times. 

7. Canada - 73.46 points 

The only American country on the list of countries with the best work-life balance, Canada ranks fairly well this year with 73.46 points. Despite offering the lowest statutory annual leave, Canadian employees manage to enjoy life beyond their 32 working hours. Moreover, Canadians tend to maintain a clear boundary between work and family life.

8. Australia - 72.1 points 

With the list’s highest minimum wage of $18.12, Australia shines as a top destination for those seeking a healthy work-life balance. Here, fair pay meets a culture that values equality and time well spent beyond the office. Proving once again that Australians aren’t just employees, but they’re individuals encouraged to live fully, not just work hard.

9. Spain - 71.94 points 

If you're after flexible working hours and a slower pace of life, Spain might just be your ideal work destination. With a generous 36 days of statutory annual leave, the country knows how to prioritize rest and relaxation. However, this perk does come at a cost—your time off is compensated at less than 60% of your regular pay.

10. Finland - 70.86 points 

Finland secures its spot among the top countries for work-life balance with generous annual leave, excellent sick pay, and one of the shortest average workweeks. What makes it even more impressive is that, unlike many of its smaller counterparts, Finland manages to uphold these worker-friendly policies across a much larger population. It's a shining example of how progressive labor laws can thrive in a big, modern nation.

As more nations look to improve their workforce dynamics, these countries with the best work-life balance offer a blueprint for a healthier, happier, and more sustainable future.

Editor's Choice: 10 Best Places to Live in the World, Three From Australia

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