There are some countries where workers spend long hours in office, such as the United States where an average employee puts in 38 hours per week, whereas there are some where workers get to enjoy a good work-life balance.
Let's take a look at some nations that have shortest working hours.
Source: CNN Money
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The Netherlands
Average hours per week: 29
Average annual wages: $47,000
Overall rank: 1
The Netherlands, which has the 10th-highest per capita income in the world, has been ranked the happiest country by the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development.
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Denmark
Average hours per week: 33
Average annual wages: $46,000
Overall rank: 2
Denmark, which has the highest social mobility in the world, has one of the highest per capita incomes in the globe.
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Norway
Average hours per week: 33
Average annual wages: $44,000
Overall rank: 3
Norway, which has large oil and gas reserves, has been ranked top in human development index.
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Ireland
Average hours per week: 34
Average annual wages: $51,000
Overall rank: 4
Ireland, which has been ranked the seventh most developed nation in the world, provides excellent standard of living, infrastructure and economic freedom.
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Germany
Average hours per week: 35
Average annual wages: $40,000
Overall rank: 5
Germany, which is the fourth-largest economy in the world, has an excellent social security system, high living standard and high per capita income.
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Switzerland
Average hours per week: 35
Average annual wages: $50,000
Overall rank: 6
Switzerland, one of the richest nations in the world, is a major financial powerhouse and exporter.
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Belgium
Average hours per week: 35
Average annual wages: $44,000
Overall rank: 7
Belgium, which has a highly skilled workforce, depends largely on exports and services industry.
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Sweden
Average hours per week: 36
Average annual wages: $38,000
Overall rank: 8
Sweden, which has the eighth-highest per capita income in the world, has been ranked the best governed nation in the globe.
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Australia
Average hours per week: 36
Average annual wages: $45,000
Overall rank: 9
Australia, one of the wealthiest nations in the world, has excellent standard of living, education and healthcare.
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Italy
Average hours per week: 36
Average annual wages: $34,000
Overall rank: 10
Italy, one of the major manufacturing centres of the world, is the ninth-largest economy.
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