In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of a good work-life balance often feels more like a dream than a reality. We have all known that feeling: answering emails late into the evening, cutting a holiday short to meet a deadline, or feeling guilty for taking a much-needed break.
The truth is, a demanding job can sometimes come at the cost of personal life, family, and well-being. But what if you did not have to choose?
For millions around the world, the dream of a better balance is a key reason for seeking chances abroad. The good news? That dream is a reality in many places. As global priorities shift, many nations are now leading the charge in creating a culture where work supports life, not the other way around.
Here is a look at 10 countries that are consistently ranked among the best for work-life balance, based on recent global studies.
The Top 10 Countries with the Best Work-Life Balance
These nations have made work-life balance a priority through strong policies and cultural values.
- New Zealand: Topping many lists, New Zealand is praised for its generous annual leave of 32 days, and a culture that values life outside of work.
- Ireland: Known for a welcoming culture and a focus on family welfare, Ireland boasts strong maternity leave policies and a compassionate leave.
- Germany: With an average workweek of 33.2 hours and labor laws that protect employees from work emails outside of working hours, Germany is a leader in setting healthy boundaries.
- Norway: A model for family welfare, Norway offers 49 weeks of paid maternity leave at full pay, along with short average workweeks.
- Denmark: Famous for being one of the happiest nations according to the World Happiness Report. Denmark supports a healthy balance with a short average workweek of 32.5 hours and a high focus on personal well-being.
- Canada: Canada offers universal healthcare and inclusive policies, and though it has fewer vacation days on average than some European nations, it consistently ranks high for overall quality of life.
- Australia: A high minimum wage of 18.12 US dollars per hour and a relaxed work culture make Australia a top destination for those seeking a better balance.
- Finland: A country with a reputation for happiness, Finland offers 36 days of annual leave and a trust-based workplace culture that supports flexible hours.
- Belgium: Belgium stands out for its high minimum wages and a culture that supports a good balance between work and personal life.
- Spain: A country known for its rich culture, Spain supports personal time with a generous 36 days of annual leave and a high regard for lifestyle-friendly norms.
Beyond Work: The Other Half of the Balance
The dream of a better work-life balance is not just about having more time. It is about having the peace of mind to truly enjoy it. For professionals who move abroad, having more personal time is meaningless if it is filled with worry about family back home.
This is the story of Olivia, a professional who moved from a country with long work hours to Canada to enjoy a better work-life balance. She now finishes her workdays on time and has plenty of time for outdoor activities and personal interests. But her joy would be incomplete without her family.
“The work-life balance here is incredible,” Olivia shares. “I have so much more time. But the most important part is that I can use that time to talk to my parents and siblings without worrying about a huge phone bill. Knowing I can make affordable, clear calls with PlanetTalk and even send them a mobile top-up or pay a bill for them makes all the difference. It feels like they are right here with me, and that is the real balance I was looking for.”
Olivia’s experience is shared by many. The opportunity to work in a country that respects your time is a gift. The ability to use that time to strengthen your connections with home is what truly completes the picture.
Find Your Balance, Keep Your Connections
PlanetTalk understands that your journey is about more than just your career. It is about a rich life filled with family, friends, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are connected.
We are here to support your journey, no matter where in the world it takes you.
