A recent study by Remote HR, a global Human Resources firm, highlights that Canada holds a spot in the top 10 for work-life balance worldwide.
According to recent research, Canada came in fifth place overall for work-life balance, with New Zealand, Denmark, Ireland, and Belgium occupying the top four spots. A number of variables that affect workers’ work-life balance were taken into consideration while establishing the rankings, including minimum wage, average weekly hours worked, percentage of sick pay, statutory yearly leave, and an overall happiness score.
Canada had a score of 72.75 out of 100 overall. Because most Canadians work 32 hours a week on average, the country did well because it is safe and accepts those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
The study emphasizes the elements that lead to a healthy work environment and the significance of work-life balance for employees.
Germany, Finland, Australia, Norway, and Spain rounded out the top ten countries for work-life balance. Just across the border, the United States ranked a disappointing 55th out of 60, primarily due to its lack of guaranteed paid vacation or sick leave, its lack of universal healthcare, and its longer workweeks.
Canada’s work-life balance, as reported by Remote, is consistent with the findings of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Both sources agree that Canada is among the top countries in terms of work-life balance. According to the OECD, only 3% of Canadian employees work very long hours, compared to the global average of 10%. Additionally, the OECD found that full-time workers in Canada spend about 14.6 hours per day on personal care activities, which is slightly lower than the global average of 15 hours.
Canada has limited vacation time
According to a recent report, Canadians typically receive just 17 days of statutory leave per year. However, this number can vary depending on the province. In Ontario, for example, new employees may only be entitled to two weeks of vacation in their first five years on the job. It’s only after five years that this increases to three weeks.
Other provinces have different rules. In Saskatchewan, employees get three weeks of vacation after one year and four weeks after ten years. In Quebec, the vacation entitlement increases from two weeks to three weeks after three years.
And that’s not all. Canada also has several statutory holidays, like Christmas, Canada Day, and Labor Day. But whether or not employees actually get these days off can depend on the province and their specific employer.
Compared to countries like New Zealand and Ireland, where employees get four weeks of paid vacation after one year, Canada’s vacation time seems a bit on the short side.
Sustained excellence in rankings
Just this year, Canada was named the safest country in the world for travelers and the dream work destination. And its passport is consistently ranked among the most powerful globally.
The country’s strong reputation, bolstered by recent rankings, has attracted a significant number of immigrants. In 2023 alone, over 470,000 people made Canada their new home. The government’s ambitious immigration plans for 2024 aim to welcome an additional 485,000 newcomers.
While the immigration minister has hinted at potential adjustments to future immigration levels. He also emphasized the positive economic and social impacts of integrating newcomers into Canadian society. This suggests that Canada will remain an attractive destination for those seeking a new life.