Maternity leave and sick pay: The best European countries for work-life balance

Work-life balance is an increasingly important factor for people looking for a new job.

A survey of 10,000 workers published in February by consultancy firm Gallup showed that personal well-being was the most important factor when considering a job offer, followed by salary and job security.

In terms of work-life balance, Europe is regarded as one of the best places in the world to be.

A global study by HR platform Remote placed seven European nations in the top ten for employee well-being, with Ireland emerging as the top destination on the continent.

The ranking doesn't focus on salaries or cost of living, but rather on other factors that can improve quality of life, like maternity leave, sick pay, working hours and social rights.

Ireland climbed up 23 positions from last year's remote work-life balance index to snatch top spot.

"This huge jump is mainly due to the Irish government's introduction of more generous statutory sick pay (which took effect from 1st January 2024), along with a high public safety score," Remote said.

Ireland also benefits from one of Europe's highest minimum wages, set at €13,44 per hour.

Iceland is second thanks to one of the longest statutory annual leaves, 38 days, 100% sick pay, one of the highest happiness indexes (7.5 out of 10) and a 93% LGBT inclusivity rate.

"Icelanders tend to be very family-centric, helping them achieve a healthy life-work balance that prioritizes time spent with loved ones. The country is also considered the continent’s safest and most LGBTQ+-friendly," said Remote.

Denmark, one of the few countries in Europe to have trialled a four-day working week in some sectors, follows Iceland to take third place. Unsurprisingly, the country has one of the shortest working weeks on