Highlights: Global Survey Reveals Best Destinations for Work-life Balance in 2025
- Remote, a HR platform, has released the list of top 10 countries globally that offer the best work-life balance to expats.
- The survey focused on key factors like working hours, work-life satisfaction, and overall job contentment from expats across the world.
- New Zealand ranks No. 1, followed by Ireland, Belgium, Germany, Norway, etc. rounding out the top five destinations.
- Countries in the top 10 offer shorter work weeks, low stress levels, and a strong emphasis on employee well-being and personal time.
- These rankings reflect a growing global shift toward healthier, more balanced lifestyles, especially for professionals seeking to migrate for work.
*Looking to work abroad? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance.
Remote Survey Reveals Countries Leading the Way in Work-Life Balance
In its 2025 global report, Remote, a leading HR and payroll platform, ranked the top countries that offer the best work-life balance. The study evaluated key factors including statutory paid leave, sick leave policies, minimum wage, and average working hours, among others, depending on data from 60 highest-GDP nations. These indicators help determine how well a country supports a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional life.
New Zealand emerged as the top-ranking country, followed closely by Ireland and Belgium. Others in the top 10 include the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, France, Spain, Finland, and Sweden. Each of these nations demonstrated strong worker protections, flexible working conditions, and a national culture that values downtime.
The report reflects a growing awareness globally that employee well-being is essential for productivity and long-term growth. For Indian professionals seeking a healthier lifestyle abroad, these countries offer a compelling mix of opportunity and quality of life.
*Want to apply for jobs abroad? Avail Y-Axis Job search services to find the right one.
10 Best Countries for Work-Life Balance in 2025 Ranked by Remote
A global study by Remote, an international HR platform, has ranked countries based on key indicators like minimum wage, paid leave, working hours, and family-friendly policies and after analysing data from 60 highest-GDP nations.
The table below has the list of top 10 countries that offer the best work-life balance in 2025:
|
Rank |
Country |
Index Score |
Total Annual leaves |
|
1 |
New Zealand |
86.87 |
High minimum wage, 26 weeks paid maternity leave, generous vacation days |
|
2 |
Ireland |
81.17 |
30 days leave, 26 weeks full paid maternity, flexible work rights |
|
3 |
Belgium |
75.91 |
34.1-hour work week, strong social security, flexible work culture |
|
4 |
Germany |
74.65 |
33.2-hour average work week, 30 days leave, strong health protections |
|
5 |
Norway |
74.2 |
Universal healthcare, long paid holidays, short work weeks |
|
6 |
Denmark |
73.76 |
Full sick pay, excellent healthcare, high happiness index |
|
7 |
Canada |
73.76 |
Inclusive policies, accessible healthcare, flexible urban work life |
|
8 |
Australia |
72.1 |
High wages, public healthcare, relaxed work culture |
|
9 |
Spain |
71.94 |
Cultural richness, ample personal time, lifestyle-friendly norms |
|
10 |
Finland |
70.86 |
36 days annual leave, flexible hours, trust-based workplace culture |
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!
For recent immigration updates, check out Y-Axis overseas immigration news page!
