Canada ranks in the top ten nations for work-life balance, i.e., the nation has once again proven to be one of the world’s best places to live and work, placing seventh out of 60 countries in the Global Life-Work Balance Index 2025.
This annual report was released by Remote, a leading global HR solutions provider, and offers a comprehensive look at how countries support healthy work-life dynamics.
Canada is the only country in the Americas to make the top 10 list. The rest of the top-ranked nations—except Australia—are all located in Europe.
The report, now in its third year, is a helpful tool for professionals and newcomers considering relocation options based on quality of life.
Top Countries For Work-Life Balance In 2025
As Canada ranks in the top ten nations for work-life balance, below is the complete ranking of the other top countries based on Remote’s findings:
| Rank | Country | Overall score |
| 1 | New Zealand | 86.87 |
| 2 | Ireland | 81.17 |
| 3 | Belgium | 75.91 |
| 4 | Germany | 74.65 |
| 5 | Norway | 74.2 |
| 6 | Denmark | 73.76 |
| 7 | Canada | 73.46 |
| 8 | Australia | 72.1 |
| 9 | Spain | 71.94 |
| 10 | Finland | 70.86 |
Canada earned an overall score of 73.46 out of 100, showing strong performance across the evaluated indicators.
In stark contrast, the United States ranked 59th, scoring only 31.17 on the work-life balance scale.
The ranking considered 10 critical factors, such as weekly working hours, safety, healthcare access, and statutory leave policies.
Notably, Canada had previously ranked fifth in 2024, but despite dropping two spots this year, it actually improved its overall score compared to last year’s 72.75. The change is attributed to stronger performances by other countries rather than a dip in Canada’s standing.
The report highlights that in Canada, workplaces value punctuality and reliability, but there is also an emphasis on maintaining a healthy divide between work and personal life—a key reason why the country continues to attract foreign talent.
How Canada Compares To Other Top Nations?
The chart below highlights how Canada performs on select metrics compared to other top-ranking countries:
| Country | Happiness index | Safety | Statutory annual leave | Paid maternity leave (weeks and payment rate) | Average hours worked per week |
| Canada | 6.8 | 1.45 | 17 days | 18 weeks, 55% | 35.2 |
| Australia | 6.97 | 1.54 | 30 days | 12 weeks, national minimum wage | 32.29 |
| Norway | 7.26 | 1.64 | 35 days | 49 weeks, 100% | 32.6 |
| Spain | 6.47 | 1.6 | 36 days | 16 weeks, 100% | 36.3 |
| Germany | 6.75 | 1.54 | 30 days | 14 weeks, 100% | 33.2 |
Note: According to the Government of Canada’s website, eligible workers can take up to 55 weeks as per the Government of Canada: 15 weeks maternity + 40 weeks parental.
It is also vital to note that Australia’s national minimum wage is currently: AUD $24.10.
Remote’s Methodology
To develop this index, Remote evaluated 60 countries with the largest gross domestic product (GDP) and used the following 10 key indicators. These were weighted and scored to create an overall ranking out of 100:
- Statutory annual leave – Total days of paid leave, including public holidays
- Minimum statutory sick pay – Expressed as either a percentage of wages or a fixed amount
- Statutory maternity leave – Number of weeks paid
- Maternity leave payment rate – Wage replacement rate during leave
- Minimum wage – Shown in USD per hour
- Healthcare status
- Happiness index – Rated on a scale of 1 to 10
- Average hours worked per week
- LGBTQ+ inclusivity – Rated on a scale of 0 to 100
- Safety (Global Peace Index) – Scored on a scale of 1 to 4, with lower being better
Note that in cases where a range was listed, Remote used the minimum value for the index.
This balanced approach ensures that not just economic factors, but quality of life indicators are considered—helping workers identify which countries offer both stability and personal well-being.
Canada’s continued presence in the top 10 reaffirms its appeal to immigrants and skilled workers seeking professional opportunities with a meaningful personal life.
Explore your pathway to move to Canada with Immigtoronto. Our team of skilled RCICs offers customized immigration solutions, ensuring a trustworthy and professional process. Contact us at [email protected].
