In today’s world, where work and personal time often blend together, many people are realizing how important it is to maintain a healthy balance. Long hours, constant emails, and little time for rest or family have become the norm in some places, leaving employees burned out. Yet some countries have set a different example, showing that it’s possible to have both a productive career and a fulfilling personal life.
If you’re curious about where you can find this kind of balance, whether you’re thinking about relocating, traveling for work, or just want to see how your own country compares, here are the top five countries in 2025 that have mastered the art of work-life balance. These rankings are based on the 2025 Global Work-Life Balance Index, which evaluates countries on criteria such as paid leave, parental benefits, working hours, healthcare access, minimum wage, happiness, and employee protections.
1. New Zealand: A Culture That Values Time Outside Work
New Zealand takes the number one spot this year with an impressive index score of 86.9 out of 100. Known for its scenic beauty and laid-back way of life, New Zealand has built a workplace culture that reflects those values.
Employees here enjoy 32 days of statutory annual leave, giving plenty of time for vacations or simply unwinding. Parents benefit from 26 weeks of fully paid maternity leave, which is one of the most generous policies worldwide. The minimum wage is strong at approximately $16.42 per hour, and everyone has access to universal healthcare.
Perhaps just as important as the policies is the culture. Employers and employees alike recognize the importance of mental health, family time, and outdoor activities. Remote work and flexible hours are widely accepted, giving people more control over their schedules. In New Zealand, productivity doesn’t mean being available 24/7. It means working efficiently, then enjoying life outside of work.
If you’re someone who wants time for hiking, sports, or simply relaxing with loved ones, New Zealand sets a clear example of how work-life balance can actually be achieved.
2. Ireland: Employee-Friendly Policies in a Growing Economy
Ireland ranks second in the 2025 index, scoring 81.2. This country has combined a growing economy with social protections that support workers at every stage of life.
Employees here are entitled to 30 days of paid annual leave, along with 26 weeks of paid maternity leave at 70 percent of salary. Healthcare is universal, and the minimum wage is around $13.96 per hour. Irish workplaces have also been quick to adopt hybrid and flexible work arrangements, helping reduce the strain of long commutes and giving people more time with family.
Safety, employee rights, and fair treatment are priorities in Ireland, making it not only a great place to work but also to live. If you’re thinking about moving to a country that values fairness and family-friendly policies while still offering career opportunities, Ireland stands out as a great choice.
3. Belgium: Support for Families and Affordable Healthcare
Belgium comes in at number three, with an index score of 75.9. This European country combines 30 days of annual paid leave with 15 weeks of maternity leave at 75 percent pay. Workers earn a solid minimum wage of about $14.58 per hour, and the healthcare system is a public-private hybrid that keeps costs affordable while maintaining high quality.
What makes Belgium unique is its emphasis on supporting families and maintaining a reasonable workweek. Employees here often work fewer hours than in other countries, and childcare and education services are widely available and subsidized. The culture promotes taking breaks during the day, socializing, and not letting work completely take over your personal life.
For workers with families, or those who want to feel supported without sacrificing their career ambitions, Belgium offers a thoughtful balance.
4. Norway: Long Leave and a High Happiness Index
Norway ranks fourth, with a score of 74.2. It’s one of the few countries offering 35 days of annual leave and up to 49 weeks of fully paid parental leave — an incredible benefit for new parents. Like many Scandinavian countries, Norway provides universal healthcare, and its citizens consistently rank among the happiest in the world.
Norwegian workplaces tend to have shorter working hours, and the national culture values spending time outdoors and with family. Employees are encouraged to use their vacation days and to disconnect outside work hours. The result is not only happier workers but also higher productivity when they are on the job.
For those who want to work in a place that truly respects personal time and mental health, Norway is an excellent example.
5. Denmark: Flexibility and Well-Being at Work
Denmark rounds out the top five with a score of 73.8. Employees here enjoy 35 days of annual leave and 18 weeks of fully paid maternity leave, along with universal healthcare and strong worker protections. Like Norway, Denmark is known for having one of the shortest average workweeks in the world, often around 37 hours.
Danish culture also promotes workplace happiness and flexibility. Many companies offer remote or hybrid options, and workdays often end early enough to allow employees time for family, hobbies, or community activities. Mental health and overall well-being are seen as essential parts of a sustainable working life.
If you want to work in an environment where your personal life is respected as much as your professional contributions, Denmark is a top contender.
Why Work-Life Balance Matters in 2025
In the wake of the pandemic, more workers and employers have come to recognize just how important balance really is. Long hours, high stress, and neglecting personal time can lead to burnout, lower productivity, and serious health problems. On the other hand, when employees have the chance to rest and recharge, they often perform better and are more creative and engaged at work.
Countries that invest in policies supporting balance, like paid leave, healthcare, flexible schedules, and fair wages, tend to see higher employee satisfaction and lower turnover. These benefits aren’t just good for workers; they also make companies and economies more resilient in the long run.
What Other Countries Can Learn
If your country struggles with long hours, minimal leave, and poor healthcare access, these examples show that improvement is possible. Governments and employers alike can take steps such as:
Encouraging flexible work arrangements
Increasing paid leave and parental benefits
Strengthening healthcare and mental health resources
Enforcing limits on excessive overtime
Supporting affordable childcare and elder care
Even small changes can have a big impact on how people feel about their work and their lives.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the countries at the top of the Global Work-Life Balance Index have shown that it’s possible to be both productive and happy. New Zealand, Ireland, Belgium, Norway, and Denmark have set the standard by prioritizing their citizens’ health, family time, and personal well-being.
If you’re looking to move abroad, plan an extended work trip, or even advocate for better policies in your own workplace, these countries provide valuable inspiration. After all, life isn’t just about work. It’s also about enjoying the time you have outside of it.
By following the lead of these nations, more workers around the world may finally experience the balance they deserve.