The Best and Worst Countries for Foreign Workers: Denmark Takes the Lead

Moving abroad and starting fresh in a new country requires significant courage and determination.

Finding employment in a foreign environment can be challenging, but some countries are more welcoming to expats—people living outside their native country—than others. According to a survey by the InterNations platform, Denmark has emerged as the best destination for foreign workers.

The Czech Republic, meanwhile, secured 15th place out of 53 countries in the ranking.

The survey assessed various factors including the availability of jobs, wages, and, crucially, work-life balance—the equilibrium between professional and personal life.

As reported by the Daily Mail, Denmark topped the list, with expats praising the country’s favorable conditions. “The work-life balance is excellent, and taking five to six weeks of vacation is the norm,” shared one Australian expat in the survey.

A significant 84 percent of respondents expressed satisfaction with their work-life balance in Denmark, while only one percent fewer highlighted working hours as a concern. About two-thirds of those surveyed also mentioned the opportunity to work remotely on a part-time basis. However, only 60 percent of expats felt they were fairly compensated in Denmark.

Saudi Arabia ranked second, with many expats reporting ample job opportunities for experienced professionals. Three-quarters of respondents claimed their job prospects had improved after relocating to the country. However, long working hours—typically averaging around 48 hours per week—remained a notable downside.

Belgium claimed third place, with expats particularly appreciating the country’s flexible work culture. Belgium’s working hours, averaging 40.8 hours per week, are notably shorter than the global average of 42.5 hours.

Turkey at the Bottom

Countries like the Netherlands, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Mexico, Indonesia, and Austria also fared well in the survey. The Czech Republic, in 15th place, outperformed countries like Sweden, Poland, Switzerland, the United States, and Germany.

Conversely, the survey identified Cyprus, Egypt, and Turkey as the worst destinations for foreign workers, with respondents expressing dissatisfaction with job opportunities and poor work-life balance in these countries.

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