Europe has long been a top-notch destination for immigrants. Students, working professionals, and retirees often select the best European countries to live and work as their preferred location for residence and employment. This preference can be attributed to various factors, including higher salaries, an excellent quality of life, enhanced opportunities, robust government support, universal healthcare, and convenient mobility within the European Union.
To determine the best countries for Indians to live and work in Europe that exhibit the most favorable work-life balance, examine the Global Life-Work Balance Index, which considers various factors, including the statutory annual leave, the minimum percentage of statutory sick pay, and the duration of paid maternity leave.
Top 10 European Countries for Immigrants to Live and Work
1. Sweden
Sweden has emerged as the best European country to live and work for immigrants seeking to live and work, ranking 7th in the World Happiness Index report of 2022. The Swedish market is undergoing significant advancements, enhancing its competitiveness with other European countries and supporting numerous start-up enterprises. The country offers an exceptional living environment, characterized by its hospitable and amiable population, a favorable work-life balance, a strong corporate culture, and outstanding public services, among other advantages.
Advantages: Increased employment opportunities, a conducive working atmosphere, social security provisions, and additional compensation for hours worked beyond 40 per week.
Annual Salary: 49,014 EUR
2. Portugal
Portugal prioritizes work-life balance, earning recognition as the second-best country in the European Union for this aspect. The relatively low cost of living contributes to a more leisurely way of life. According to the Global Peace Index 2020, Portugal is ranked third, and in 2020, it also received 26 World Travel Awards. Additionally, the country was placed 57th in the World Happiness Index 2022 Report.
Advantages: Cost-effective and economical, guaranteed bonuses, minimal crime rates, and governmental support through social security contributions.
Annual Salary: 33,800 EUR.
3. Netherlands
The Netherlands is characterized as one of the best countries for Indians to live and work in Europe by a flexible work culture that promotes a healthy balance between professional and personal life, with a significant number of employees opting for part-time or flexible working hours. Additionally, the country prioritizes vacation time, with workers generally receiving approximately 25 days of paid leave annually. According to the 2022 Happiness Index ranking, the Netherlands holds the 5th position, attributed to its safety standards, robust social programs, and strong economy.
Advantages: There will be a reduction in costs, the nation is more conducive to long-term employment opportunities, and it also allocates resources to various investor support initiatives.
Annual Salary: 38,500 EUR.
4. Spain
A report published in 2018 by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions indicates that Spain enjoys one of the highest levels of satisfaction regarding work-life balance within the European Union. The country holds the second position on the Remote index, attributed to advantages such as 26 days of mandatory annual leave. Typically, the workweek consists of approximately 40 hours; however, the government has recently sanctioned a trial period for a four-day workweek. Organizations can engage in this trial and implement a reduced workweek at their discretion.
Advantages: Excellent healthcare benefits, a vibrant cultural heritage, and more affordable living expenses in comparison to other European nations.
Salary: 45,000 EUR for a 40-hour work week.
5. Denmark
Denmark boasts a robust welfare system that offers paid parental leave, accessible childcare, and flexible working arrangements. This framework fosters a positive work-life balance advantageous to both employees and employers. In the 2022 World Happiness Index, Denmark secured the 2nd position, establishing itself as one of the safest and most contented nations globally. Additionally, Denmark's strategic geographical position between Sweden and Germany enhances trade routes and promotes collaboration among these countries.
Advantages: Enhanced employee contentment, increased average wages, and reduced working hours in comparison to other nations.
Annual Salary: 71,820 EUR
6. Germany
Germany enforces regulations that restrict working hours and guarantee equitable compensation for overtime. The country promotes flexible work options including part-time employment and remote work, to foster an improved work-life balance. In the 2021 Happiness Index, Germany was ranked 15th, which improved to 13th in the World Happiness Index of 2022. German cities provide a wide range of benefits for expatriates, including healthcare, paid leave, and unparalleled experiences.
Advantages: Enhancement of cultural diversity, promotion of work-life balance, access to healthcare, and substantial paid leave policies.
Annual Salary: 47,400 EUR
7. Belgium
Belgium provides an excellent quality of life along with robust employment prospects in industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare. Citizens of Belgium benefit from an average of 8.6 hours of leisure time each day, while their work commitments average around 7 hours daily. Additionally, the nation hosts several prominent European institutions, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the European Union.
Advantages: Universal healthcare coverage, overtime pay, maternity benefits, and so on.Â
Annual Salary: 48,912 EUR
8. France
Based on data from the OECD, individuals in France enjoy an average of 16.2 hours daily dedicated to personal and leisure activities. France ranks as one of the premier countries for relocation, offering a distinctive and sophisticated lifestyle. Renowned for its technological progress, France was positioned 12th in the Global Innovation Index 2022, presenting numerous opportunities for technology enthusiasts.
Advantages:Â An inclusive culture and a vibrant heritage, a center for education, and opportunities in research and technology.
Annual Salary: 39,800 EUR
9. Norway
Norway holds the 6th position in the World Happiness Report 2022, providing excellent opportunities for the working class and their families by promoting a well-balanced work-life dynamic while allowing them to experience the beauty of Scandinavia. The standard working hours are approximately 40 per week, although Norwegians typically work around 37.5 hours weekly. With five weeks of paid vacation, employment in Norway—whether full-time or part-time—affords individuals the flexibility to work and travel home to visit family.
Advantages: Pension and retirement plans, compensated parental leave for both mothers and fathers, insurance coverage, and educational support.
Annual Salary: 50,934 EUR.
10. Finland
The World Happiness Report 2022 indicates that Finland ranks among the happiest nations globally. While the cost of living in Finland is relatively high compared to 80% of other countries, it is important to consider the government's dedicated efforts to promote the well-being, security, and development of its citizens, which is indeed praiseworthy.
Advantages: Equitable compensation and opportunities for both genders, outstanding healthcare and safety measures, and governmental programs aimed at promoting the well-being of the population.
Annual Salary: 43,440 EUR.
Europe is a focal point for global talent, with more than 1.9 million immigrants relocating to the EU by the year 2020. While the motivations for migration differ among individuals, a significant driving force behind this trend is the pursuit of improved living conditions, enhanced quality of life, and greater opportunities. Go-Global Immigration Services can help you to select the best European country for a better future.
