Time management is only one aspect of work-life balance in 2025. Since a large portion of the global workforce is impacted by economic, technological, and societal variables, it is imperative that we emphasize the value of maintaining harmony between personal and professional lives.
Employers may boost retention rates and draw in top talent from more varied international talent pools by enhancing life-work balance. In order to determine which countries have the best work-life balance, we will examine the 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index. The index examined a number of factors, including statutory annual leave and the amount paid for maternity leave, in order to reach its conclusion.
Are you prepared to move in 2025? Find out which nations offer the finest balance between work and life.
- New Zealand
In addition to ranking first in its 2025 study, it now tops Remote’s index. The workforce of New Zealand, which is supported by a robust economy, is known for its “can-do” Kiwi mentality and focus on free communication and independence.
It provides a significant 32-day yearly leave entitlement together with a high minimum pay. New Zealand is regarded as one of the safest places to live and work, and it also has a high “Happiness Index” score.
New Zealand might be the ideal location for you if you’re a young adult hoping to broaden your horizons through a significant journey and intend to pay for it through employment along the way! There are several short-term and seasonal job options across the nation, from adventure sports organizations to tour operators to farmers.
- Ireland
The nation routinely receives high marks on a number of measures. Ireland has one of the highest minimum wages in the Remote index and is supported by a universal healthcare system that is sponsored by the government. This nation, which has a population of little over five million, is regarded as one of the safest in the world.
People around the world think that Irish people are generally warm, gregarious, with a casual attitude, and this attitude usually carries over into the workplace. Colleagues frequently socialize with one another at work, and hierarchy is not usually viewed as being very significant. Irish culture also places a high importance on family values, according to Remote.
- Belgium
The nation’s improved sickness policies are the reason for its excellent 2025 ranking. Although people have different opinions, Belgians often follow the maxim “work to live” rather than the opposite, rarely allowing the two to coexist.
Its average number of hours worked per week is 35, which is less than the average of the nations in the index, and its minimum wage is one of the highest in Europe.
- Germany
Germany is a fantastic place to start a career abroad, especially for engineers, because of its stimulating culture and unrivaled work-life balance. People have better lives while working less hours (about 27 hours each week)! International workers continue to prefer the larger cities; the greatest expat groups are found in Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. No matter where you go, you’ll experience a little of the unique charm that defines this forward-thinking European nation.
- Norway
It was ranked at the top by the reports in terms of work-life balance. Employees can benefit from parental leave, paid overtime work, flexible working hours, and attractive vacation leaves. The laws allow for overtime but are strictly regulated. Overtime should not exceed 200 hours per year and it is compensated at a rate of 40%-100% above regular salary.
- Denmark
The World Happiness Report ranks it as the second-happiest country in the world. According to OECD data, only 2% of Danish employees work “very long hours,” which is reflected in a shorter-than-average working week of 33.91 hours. The Danes’ contentment may undoubtedly be somewhat attributed to their healthy outlook on life and work. Although it is not required by law, several businesses and workers are experimenting with a four-day workweek.
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Denmark is one of the safest and happiest countries on Earth, offers excellent social welfare resources, such as public healthcare and professional child care, and encourages a great work-life balance. When you combine this with Denmark’s robust economy and good level of living, it’s clear why it’s one of the greatest places to work overseas.
