In this article, we will look at the 10 best countries to live and work in 2024. We have also discussed the current state of human development in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 24 Best Countries to Live and Work in 2024.
10. Switzerland
Quality of Life for Expats: 4
Happiness of Employees: 19
Average Rank: 11.5
With stable employment rates, especially among men, and a low prevalence of long working hours, Switzerland has a strong work-life balance. The country has high literacy rates, particularly in upper secondary education, with above-average academic performance, where girls often outshine boys. It is one of the top 10 best countries to live and work in 2024.
9. Netherlands
Quality of Life for Expats: 14
Happiness of Employees: 6
Average Rank: 10
In the OECD, the Netherlands is known for its exceptional work-life balance, with just 0.3% of employees working very long hours. Dutch full-time workers typically allocate 64% of their day, around 15.4 hours, to personal care and leisure activities.
8. Norway
Quality of Life for Expats: 16
Happiness of Employees: 2
Average Rank: 9
Norway has an exceptional work-life balance, with merely 1% of workers working for extensive hours. Full-time employees allocate 65% of their day, roughly 15.7 hours, to personal leisure and care. Additionally, the country stands out for its top-tier education system.
7. Australia
Quality of Life for Expats: 15
Happiness of Employees: 3
Average Rank: 9
Australia is becoming a top choice for job opportunities among foreigners due to its proposed immigration policy changes. These include plans to increase pay for incoming temporary visa holders and an overall immigration system update. Specific visa programs like the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa are designed to lure highly skilled professionals. It is one of the countries that have the most job opportunities for foreigners.
6. France
Quality of Life for Expats: 10
Happiness of Employees: 8
Average Rank: 9
France’s healthcare sector is currently facing severe labor shortages, offering promising prospects for foreign healthcare professionals. To tackle the doctor shortages, France may relax regulations, allowing foreign doctors to practice in underserved areas, making it a top destination for international students seeking employment opportunities.
5. Spain
Quality of Life for Expats: 7
Happiness of Employees: 11
Average Rank: 9
Spain is attractive for foreigners seeking jobs as it has a vast job market, especially in tourism, agriculture, and service industries. It is one of the countries with the most hardworking people.
4. Austria
Quality of Life for Expats: 2
Happiness of Employees: 13
Average Rank: 7.5
Austria has a strong job market for foreigners and a high demand for skilled workers in different industries like technology, healthcare, and tourism. It is also home to multinationals like Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc. Austria is one of the countries that hire from abroad.
3. Sweden
Quality of Life for Expats: 5
Happiness of Employees: 7
Average Rank: 6
Sweden attracts expatriates with its perfect work-life balance, praised by 79% of respondents in the Expat Insider survey. Furthermore, 68% report satisfaction with their professional roles. The country stands out for its high quality of life, particularly in the availability of environmentally friendly goods and services.
2. Finland
Quality of Life for Expats: 1
Happiness of Employees: 9
Average Rank: 5
In Finland, the standard workday lasts eight hours, and employees typically enjoy a four-week paid summer holiday, commonly taken in July. Many industries provide a minimum of 30 days of statutory paid annual leave, making Finland renowned for its excellent work benefits.
1.Denmark
Quality of Life for Expats: 3
Happiness of Employees: 4
Average Rank: 3.5
According to a report by MoneyNerd, Copenhagen, Denmark, has been called as the world’s best city for achieving a great work-life balance alongside competitive salaries. With an average salary of $44,474 and a work-life balance rating of 8.6 out of 10. It is the best country to live and work in 2024.
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