On This Page You Will Find
- How Canada ranks in the 2025 global work-life balance index
- Key strengths of the Canadian workplace culture
- Comparison with other top-ranked countries
- What sets Canada apart from the United States
- Work conditions and employee protections in Canada
Canada has ranked seventh in the 2025 Global Work-Life Balance Index, making it the only country in the Americas to appear in the top ten. The report, published by Remote.com, evaluates 60 countries across a wide range of indicators including minimum wage, annual leave, average working hours, safety, happiness, inclusivity, and healthcare access.
Although Canada has dropped two spots since 2024, its performance remains strong—especially when compared to its neighbor, the United States, which ranked near the bottom of the list in 59th place.
A Strong Showing Across the Board
Canada’s score of 73.46 reflects a steady commitment to maintaining a balanced, healthy, and inclusive working environment. It performed particularly well in several key domains:
- Statutory sick pay – one of the most generous globally
- Public safety – high levels of safety in most cities
- LGBTQ+ inclusivity – strong protections and social acceptance
- Universal healthcare – accessible, government-funded medical care
- Work culture – emphasis on dependability without sacrificing personal time
Canadian workplaces prioritize punctuality and professionalism, yet stress the importance of maintaining a clear separation between work and home life. Family time, leisure, and personal wellbeing are deemed essential parts of everyday life, contributing to a overall healthier work environment.
What the Rankings Mean
The 2025 index placed New Zealand, Ireland, and Belgium in the top three spots, with Canada ahead of Australia, Spain, and Finland. Norway observed the biggest jump this year, moving from ninth to fifth due to expanded parental leave and shorter working hours. Meanwhile, Germany and Denmark continue to lead among European countries owing to their efficiency-first culture and robust social support systems.
A North American Outlier
In stark contrast, the United States displays a 59th-place ranking, illustrating the sharp differences in labor and social policies between the two neighboring countries. Canada’s universal healthcare, superior social protections, and cultural emphasis on work-life balance position it as a more appealing option for those seeking a healthily segmented life between professional obligations and personal pursuits.
Life in Canada for Workers
Employees in Canada can expect reasonable work hours, generous leave policies, and flexible working options. Each province sets its own labor standards, but generally, workers can count on the following benefits:
- At least two weeks’ paid vacation per year (more with tenure)
- Paid parental leave (up to 18 months with federal benefits)
- Paid sick leave (varies by province, typically 3–10 days or more)
- Safe working conditions protected by employment laws
- Strong social values promoting diversity and inclusion
These aspects significantly contribute to Canada’s strong showing on the global index, collectively reflecting the nation’s commitment to cultivating fair and supportive work practices.
Top 10 Countries for Work-Life Balance in 2025
1. New Zealand – Index score: 86.87
New Zealand leads the rankings for the third straight year, thanks to robust scores in statutory leave, public safety, minimum wage, and overall happiness. The country combines a strong work ethic with a profound belief that life is meant to be enjoyed. Supported by its breathtaking natural landscapes and health-conscious populace, New Zealand presents excellent work-life conditions, making it a favored destination for professionals seeking balance and wellbeing.
2. Ireland – Index score: 81.17
Ireland retains its second-place position for 2025 by offering a mix of strong social protections and a warm, community-focused culture. High rankings in maternity leave, safety, and minimum wage characterize its work environment. The embracing team spirit and camaraderie among Irish workers contribute to the country’s consistently high happiness and wellbeing statistics.
3. Belgium – Index score: 75.91
Belgium climbs into third place, largely due to a short average work week and an abundance of statutory benefits. With strong maternity pay, generous sick leave, and a competitive minimum wage, Belgium establishes a work culture that balances efficiency with personal wellbeing, reflected in its high public happiness ratings.
4. Germany – Index score: 74.65
Germany makes notable improvements, ascending two positions thanks to better sick pay, enhanced LGBTQ+ inclusion, and shortened working hours. The country’s value of productivity revolves around efficiency while placing importance on structured time off. It remains one of Europe’s most consistent performers regarding quality of life and employment standards.
5. Norway – Index score: 74.20
Norway witnessed the most significant leap in 2025, primarily due to more generous parental leave and decreased average working hours. With a focused approach on equality, wellbeing, and LGBTQ+ inclusiveness, Norway’s work culture thrives on collaboration and mutual respect. The average work week totals just over 32 hours, contributing to its ranking as one of the happiest and safest countries globally.
6. Denmark – Index score: 73.76
Although dropping from the top three, Denmark remains a standard bearer for quality of life and balanced work culture. Known for short working hours, strong social safety nets, and overall happiness, Denmark cultivates both professional development and personal comfort. Its inclusive society continues to attract workers aiming for a less stressful lifestyle.
7. Canada – Index score: 73.46
Canada holds its position in the top 10, bolstered by its strong healthcare, public safety, and inclusive workplace culture. Statutory sick leave provisions rank among the world’s finest, while workers benefit from universal healthcare and robust labor protections. The culture hinges on punctuality and professionalism while facilitating a clear separation between work and family life, making it the sole nation in the Americas to feature in the top ten.
8. Australia – Index score: 72.10
Australia retains its eighth position, characterized by a laid-back work culture, strong employee protections, and the highest minimum wage within the study. With fewer average working hours, Australians enjoy a lifestyle that fosters outdoor activity and overall wellbeing. The workplace environment tends to emphasize openness and flexible work practices, resulting in sustained employee satisfaction.
9. Spain – Index score: 71.94
Spain climbs one spot this year, fueled by substantial statutory leave, a relaxed work culture, and strong LGBTQ+ protections. While the midday “siesta” is largely becoming a thing of the past, Spanish workplaces still promote a mellow rhythm that supports personal time. Spain also boasts one of the highest levels of maternity pay contributions, reflecting its commitment to employee wellbeing.
10. Finland – Index score: 70.86
Finland completes the top ten, featuring high happiness ratings, a short average work week, and generous paid leave. Though it has slipped three ranks this year, it remains a leader in trust, freedom, and societal support. The Finnish emphasis on nature, simplicity, and transparency lends itself to one of the most liveable and mentally healthy work environments globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Canada rank in the top 10 for work-life balance in 2025?
Canada ranked highly due to strong social benefits like universal healthcare, generous sick leave, good safety ratings, and a culture that supports work-life separation.
How does Canada compare to the United States in the index?
Canada came in 7th, while the United States ranked 59th. This contrast highlights major differences in healthcare, paid leave, and work-life expectations.
What is the typical work week like in Canada?
Canadian workers typically work around 36 to 40 hours per week, depending on the industry. Overtime is regulated, and many employers offer flexible arrangements.
What benefits do Canadian workers receive?
Benefits often include paid vacation, parental leave, statutory sick leave, health insurance coverage, and safe work environments, varying slightly by province.
Are newcomers to Canada eligible for these workplace protections?
Yes. Most employment protections apply to all workers in Canada, including newcomers, provided they are legally employed and meet eligibility for federal or provincial benefits.
