Not Spain or France: This is the country with the best work-life balance
A look at the countries where workers have the best work-life balance based on metrics related to pay, annual and sick leave, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Are you tired of a demanding work-life that leaves little time for friends, family, or relaxation? Prioritizing work-life balance can be tough, but some countries make it much easier for workers to find that equilibrium.
According to Remote, a company that supports international hiring, New Zealand tops the list of countries offering the best work-life balance.
Ten Best Countries for Work-Life Balance
- New Zealand
- Ireland
- Belgium
- Germany
- Norway
- Denmark
- Canada
- Australia
- Spain
- Finland
Source: Remote
tired of a demanding work-life that leaves little time for friends, family, or relaxation
How the list was determined
The list compiled by Remote was based on a methodology that examined annual leave policies, as well as sick leave, maternity leave pay (both the amount of time and the percentage of wage paid), as well as general happiness, and metrics that dealt with the inclusion and protections for the LGBTQ+ community in the national law.
Why New Zealand tops the list
Remote highlighted the country’s generous vacation and family leave policies, which help ensure workers get the rest they need—along with its breathtaking scenery, which offers stunning destinations to disconnect without the need for long travel.
By law, workers in New Zealand are entitled to four weeks of paid vacation each year. These vacation days typically reset on the anniversary of the employee’s start date. For many U.S. workers—who often have to use vacation days when they’re sick—it might come as a surprise that this isn’t the case in New Zealand, or in many other countries.
Kiwis (a common nickname for people from New Zealand) receive 10 sick days per year, which can usually accumulate up to 20 if unused. In addition, the government provides more substantial support for workers facing long-term illness or injury that prevents them from working.
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