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 Life-Work 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 neighbouring 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 the following areas:
- Statutory sick pay – among 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 are generally punctual and professional, but employees are encouraged to maintain a clear separation between work and home life. Family time, leisure, and personal wellbeing are considered essential parts of everyday life.
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 saw the biggest jump this year, moving from ninth to fifth thanks to expanded parental leave and shorter working hours. Meanwhile, Germany and Denmark continue to lead among European countries for their efficiency-first culture and strong social support systems.
A North American Outlier
In contrast, the United States’ 59th-place ranking highlights the stark difference in labour and social policies between the two neighbours. Canada’s universal healthcare, better social protections, and cultural emphasis on work-life balance make it far more attractive for workers looking to avoid burnout and enjoy personal time without compromising on career opportunities.
Life in Canada for Workers
Employees in Canada enjoy reasonable work hours, generous leave policies, and flexible working options. Provinces have their own labour standards, but across the board, workers can expect:
- 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, often 3–10 days or more)
- Safe working conditions protected by employment laws
- Strong social values including diversity and inclusion
These factors contribute to Canada’s overall strong performance in the global index and reflect the country’s commitment to fair and supportive employment 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 strong scores in statutory leave, public safety, minimum wage, and happiness. The country blends a culture of hard work with a widespread belief that life is for living. Supported by breathtaking natural beauty and a health-conscious society, New Zealand offers excellent work-life conditions and is a popular destination for professionals seeking balance and wellbeing.
2. Ireland – Index score: 81.17
Ireland remains second for 2025, offering a combination of strong social protections and a warm, community-focused culture. It ranks high for maternity leave, safety, and minimum wage. The Irish workplace is known for its team spirit and sense of camaraderie. The balance of hard work and friendliness contributes to the country’s consistently high happiness and wellbeing scores.
3. Belgium – Index score: 75.91
Belgium climbs into sole possession of third place, thanks to a short average work week and a high level of statutory benefits. Its strong maternity pay, generous sick leave, and competitive minimum wage contribute to an efficient yet balanced work culture. Combined with a high public happiness score, Belgium continues to blend professionalism with personal wellbeing.
4. Germany – Index score: 74.65
Germany moves up two places with improvements in sick pay, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and shorter working hours. The country values productivity through efficiency and places importance on structured time off. German workers benefit from strong social insurance, supportive family leave, and a culture of respect for personal boundaries. It remains one of Europe’s most consistent performers in terms of quality of life and employment standards.
5. Norway – Index score: 74.20
Norway makes the biggest jump in 2025, largely due to more generous parental leave and reduced average working hours. With a strong focus on equality, wellbeing, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, Norway’s work culture encourages cooperation and respect. The average work week is just over 32 hours, and the country ranks among the happiest and safest in the world.
6. Denmark – Index score: 73.76
Despite falling from the top three, Denmark remains a benchmark for quality of life and balanced work culture. Known for short working hours, strong social protections, and happiness, Denmark fosters both professional growth and personal comfort. Its inclusive society and love for “hygge” living continue to draw workers seeking less stress and more freedom.
7. Canada – Index score: 73.46
Canada holds steady in the top 10, thanks to strong healthcare, safety, and workplace inclusivity. Statutory sick leave is among the world’s best, and workers benefit from universal healthcare and labour protections. The culture emphasises punctuality and professionalism, while supporting a clear separation between work and family life. It is the only country in the Americas to make the top ten.
8. Australia – Index score: 72.10
Australia retains eighth place with its laid-back work culture, strong employee protections, and the highest minimum wage in the study. Australians work fewer hours on average and enjoy a climate and lifestyle that encourages outdoor activity and wellbeing. Employers generally promote openness and work-life flexibility, making Australia a long-standing leader in employee satisfaction.
9. Spain – Index score: 71.94
Spain climbs one position this year with generous statutory leave, a relaxed work culture, and strong LGBTQ+ protections. Though the midday “siesta” is largely outdated, Spanish workplaces maintain an easy-going rhythm that supports personal time. The country also boasts one of the highest levels of maternity payment contribution and a commitment to employee wellbeing.
10. Finland – Index score: 70.86
Finland rounds out the top ten with high happiness levels, a short average work week, and generous paid leave. While it has slipped three places, it remains a global leader in trust, freedom, and societal support. The Finnish emphasis on nature, simplicity, and transparency contributes to one of the most liveable and mentally healthy work environments in the world.
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.
