Table of Contents
In countries known for excellent work-life balance, like New Zealand, Costa Rica, and the Czech Republic, expats report high satisfaction with their lives abroad. Surprisingly, even though expats in these countries generally feel they have a good work-life balance, many still work full-time, with weekly hours often similar to the global average. This insight comes from the 2024 Expat Insider survey, showing that satisfaction with work-life balance isn’t solely about working less but about how work and personal life are balanced effectively.
1. Denmark
With just 39.7 hours per week (vs. 44.3 hours globally), expats working full time in Denmark have the shortest working week out of the top 10 countries with a great work-life balance. Maybe that benefit attracts highly educated expats: nearly half the respondents in Denmark (47%) have a master’s degree or similar. Additionally, twelve percent hold a PhD (vs. 6% globally), which is — together with Sweden — the highest share out of the featured top 10. “I like the work-life balance, which I do not get anywhere else,” an expat from Indonesia states, while one from Portugal points out the “balance between work and private life” as a positive aspect of Denmark. More than three-quarters of expats in Denmark rate their work-life balance positively (76%), compared to three in five globally (60%). Their overall job satisfaction (62%) is below the global average (64%).
2. Bahrain
Nearly half of expats in Bahrain (46%) moved there primarily for work-related reasons, with over a quarter finding employment independently, which is more than double the global average. Others were recruited by local companies or sent by their employers. Bahrain is perceived as a favorable destination for work, as highlighted by an expat from the Philippines who notes the ability to relax after work. A significant majority (69%) of expats report satisfaction with their work-life balance, and 72% are content with their working hours despite working slightly fewer hours per week on average compared to the global norm. Additionally, 70% mention earning more than they would in a similar job back home, a sentiment shared by expats in Norway as well. This financial advantage may contribute to the high job satisfaction among expats in Bahrain, with 73% expressing overall satisfaction and 36% rating their job experience as excellent — more than twice the global average.
3. Norway
Expats in Norway express high satisfaction with their work-life balance (72%) and working hours (77%). They work an average of 42.9 hours per week, 1.4 hours less than expats globally in full-time roles (44.3 hours). According to a British expat, work-life balance is a priority in Norway, and jobs typically support family life. Additionally, 12% of expats in Norway report an annual household income exceeding $150,000, although this figure is slightly lower than in New Zealand (14%), another top-ranking country. Despite earning well, 72% of expats believe they earn more in Norway than in a similar job in their home country. This percentage is notably higher than the global average (51%) and the highest among the top 10 countries with excellent work-life balance. However, despite these positives, 71% of expats in Norway view the cost of living negatively (compared to 35% globally). Consequently, 21% state that their disposable household income does not cover all their daily needs.
4. The Czech Republic
The Czech Republic’s expats work longer than the top 10 featured countries, averaging 44.9 hours per week, slightly exceeding the global average of 44.3 hours. Despite this, they generally express satisfaction with their working hours (76% vs. 61% globally) and work-life balance (73% vs. 60% globally). According to an expat from Australia, the working conditions are excellent, with many benefits such as additional vacation days and good healthcare provided by employers.
Moreover, expats in the Czech Republic are highly satisfied with their career prospects (65% vs. 53% globally) and job security (74% vs. 57% globally), the highest among the top 10 countries known for their excellent work-life balance. “I enjoy everything related to my job,” summarizes an expat from Russia, reflecting the sentiment shared by three-quarters (75%) who rate their overall job satisfaction positively.
5. New Zealand
Most expats choose to move to New Zealand for a better quality of life rather than work opportunities, with only six percent citing job-related reasons. Interestingly, only 73 percent of expats in New Zealand work full-time, which is lower than the global average of 83%. Full-time employees in New Zealand also spend two hours less at work per week compared to the global average (42.3 hours vs. 44.3 hours).
This relaxed work environment might explain why exactly three-quarters of expats in New Zealand are satisfied with their work-life balance and working hours. A British expat highlights the “generally laid-back and friendly lifestyle” as a key attraction. Despite not working excessively, New Zealand hosts the highest proportion of expats with a yearly household income exceeding $150,000 among the top 10 featured countries. This factor contributes to a high overall satisfaction rate, with 89 percent of expats expressing general satisfaction with their life abroad, making them the happiest globally.
6. Sweden
Expats in Sweden express satisfaction with their working life, with many reporting above-average contentment across several aspects. Close to seven out of ten (69%) are pleased with their work-life balance, and more than three-quarters (77%) are satisfied with their working hours. Like New Zealand, the average full-time employees in Sweden work 42.3 hours per week, less than the global average of 44.3 hours.
Moreover, 56 percent of expats in Sweden are content with their career prospects, compared to 53 percent globally, and an even higher proportion (65%) are satisfied with their job security, exceeding the global average of 57%. According to an expat from Germany, “There are lots of job opportunities and a good work-life balance” in Sweden. However, only three in five (60%) expats in Sweden report overall satisfaction with their jobs, which is slightly below the global average of 64%.
7. Costa Rica
Expats in Costa Rica work an average of 44.3 hours per week, which aligns with the global average for expats. Despite these long hours, 68 percent of Costa Rica expats report work-life balance satisfaction, which is higher than the global average of 60 percent. However, many expats feel that their long hours do not translate into financial satisfaction: only 44 percent say their disposable household income covers all their daily expenses, compared to 48 percent globally.
According to an expat from the USA, “It is very expensive to live here, and you’re not paid well.” Additionally, more than two in five expats in Costa Rica (42%) believe their current income is lower than what they would earn in a similar job back home, compared to 29 percent of expats worldwide who share this view.
8. The Netherlands
Before moving abroad, six in ten expats (60%) viewed the Netherlands’ strong economy and job market as a major advantage, compared to 45 percent globally. Perhaps the robust economy allows expats to work 2.3 hours less per week than the global average for full-time positions (42 hours vs. 44.3 hours).
“Life is hassle-free and very relaxed,” reflects an expat from Canada, while a French expat appreciates the “excellent working conditions.” Approximately three-quarters of expats in the Netherlands are satisfied with their work-life balance (75%) and working hours (76%). This satisfaction may attract highly educated ex-pats: over half of the ex-pats in the Netherlands hold a master’s degree or similar qualification (51%), which is not only 11 percentage points higher than the global average but also the highest among the destinations on this list.
Moreover, the primary sectors or industries where ex-pats work differ somewhat from the global norm: 17 percent are employed in IT (compared to 9% globally), followed by finance (12% vs. 8%), and manufacturing & engineering (11% vs. 8%).
9. Oman
Like Bahrain, many ex-pats (43%) relocated to Oman primarily for work-related reasons:
- 25% secured a job independently.
- 11local company hired 11%, 5% wer.
- 5ent by their employer, and 2%.
2 to start their own business abroad.indeed,
work holds considerable importance in expat life in Oman, as nearly all expats (96%) work full-time—the highest percentage among the top 10 countries with a great work-life balance.
Despite working slightly fewer hours than the global average (43.5 hours vs. 44.3 hours per week), expats in Oman generally express satisfaction with their work-life balance (67%) and working hours (70%), both of which exceed global averages (60% and 61%, respectively). A Moldovan resident in Oman appreciates the “relaxed lifestyle where everyone can set their schedule without being tied to a hectic routine.”
However, job satisfaction overall is somewhat lower, with only 60% expressing general satisfaction. This could be attributed to limited career prospects and job security, with only 39% satisfied with career opportunities (compared to 53% globally) and 47% satisfied with job security (compared to 57% globally).
10. Malta
Like New Zealand, the main reason expats move to Malta is for a better quality of life (27%), with only 15% citing work-related reasons. About three-quarters of expats in Malta work full-time (77%), the second-lowest among the ten featured countries, just after New Zealand. Those working full-time in Malta put in 43.9 hours per week, slightly less than the global average of 44.3 hours.
Despite this, expats in Malta are generally happy with their working hours (67%) and work-life balance (72%). A Croatian expat appreciates the “opportunity to work and earn well,” which aligns with the experiences of many expats in Malta. Over half (52%) find their disposable household income sufficient for daily needs, slightly above the global average (48%). Additionally, 66% of expats feel secure in their jobs (compared to 57% globally).
It’s no surprise that 75% of expats in Malta are satisfied with their jobs, the highest satisfaction rate among the featured countries, along with the Czech Republic and New Zealand. The only downside seems to be career prospects, with only 43% rating them positively, compared to 53% globally.
Conclusion
In summary, these ten countries stand out for offering a great work-life balance to expats. Whether it’s the flexible working hours in New Zealand, the high job satisfaction in Malta, or the strong career prospects in the Czech Republic, each destination provides unique benefits that contribute to an improved quality of life. While some expats might work long hours, the overall satisfaction with work-life balance, job security, and income remain high. This balance allows expats to enjoy their personal lives without compromising their professional success, making these countries attractive destinations for those seeking a fulfilling life abroad.
FAQs
Q1: What factors contribute to a great work-life balance for expats?
Ans: A great work-life balance often includes flexible working hours, reasonable weekly work hours, job satisfaction, and opportunities for personal time. Access to good healthcare, vacation days, and a supportive work environment also play significant roles.
Q2: Which country has the highest job satisfaction among expats?
Ans: According to recent surveys, Malta, the Czech Republic, and New Zealand all have high job satisfaction rates, with around 75% of expats expressing overall job satisfaction.
Q3: Do expats in these countries work fewer hours than the global average?
Ans: Generally, yes. In countries like New Zealand, Sweden, and the Netherlands, expats work fewer hours per week than the global average of 44.3 hours, contributing to a better work-life balance.
Q4: Are expats in these countries satisfied with their income levels?
Ans: In most of these countries, many expats report being satisfied with their income levels. For instance, many expats in Norway and the Netherlands believe they earn more than they would in similar jobs back home.
Q5: Is job security high in these top work-life balance countries?
Ans: Yes, job security tends to be high. For example, 74% of expats in the Czech Republic and 66% in Malta report being satisfied with their job security.
Q6: Do expats in these countries have better career prospects?
Ans: Career prospects vary, but many expats in countries like the Czech Republic and Sweden report above-average satisfaction with their career opportunities.
Q7: Which country has the shortest average workweek for expats?
Ans: Sweden and New Zealand have shorter average workweeks for expats, at around 42.3 hours per week.
Q8: Are living expenses a concern for expats in these countries?
Ans: Living expenses can be a concern. For example, 71% of expats in Norway rate the cost of living negatively. However, many expats still find their income sufficient to cover daily expenses.
Q9: What attracts expats to these countries besides work-life balance?
Ans: Many expats are attracted to these countries for their high quality of life, friendly locals, good healthcare systems, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Q10: How do expats in these countries balance work and personal life?
Ans: Expats in these countries often balance work and personal life through flexible work schedules, shorter workweeks, and access to ample vacation time, allowing them to enjoy personal pursuits and family time.