Top 5 Employer of Record service providers: a comprehensive guide
A breakdown of the top 5 Employer of Record service providers to help your business choose the right partner for global workforce expansion.
- Explore the leading Employer of Record (EOR) service providers in 2025, including Mauve, Deel, Oyster, Remote, and Playroll.
- Compare features, pricing models, and service offerings to find the best solution for your global expansion.
- Discover why Mauve Group stands out as a trusted partner for international payroll, compliance, and workforce management.
When the time comes to expand overseas, you want to have the right partner by your side. Going global is an exciting step for any business, but it comes with a host of challenges. Leveraging the knowledge and support of local experts instantly simplifies these challenges.
Employer of Record (EOR) services hire your workers in-country on your behalf. This leaves you and your teams free to focus on strategy, growth, and building beyond borders. An EOR will handle hiring, onboarding, offboarding, HR, and payroll, ensuring compliance with all regional rules and regulations.
Employment and tax laws differ hugely from country to country, or, in the case of the USA, from state to state. This can make operating across multiple jurisdictions highly complex, for businesses of all sizes. However, with an experienced EOR onside, you can rest assured that no corners are cut and compliance is guaranteed.
Using an EOR also means that your business can test the waters in a new market without the significant cost and long-term commitment of setting up a local entity.
This article explores the top five EOR providers: Mauve, Deel, Oyster, Remote, and Playroll. We highlight their features and pricing models and explore why Mauve is a standout choice for businesses seeking reliable global expansion support.
What is an Employer of Record?
An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party provider that legally employs workers on behalf of a company in a foreign country. The EOR handles HR functions, payroll, compliance, and benefits while the client company manages day-to-day work responsibilities.
This allows organisations to smoothly and speedily hire employees abroad without setting up a legal entity. It ensures compliance with local employment and tax laws. EORs greatly reduce the risk when entering new markets. Business leaders can then focus on growth rather than administrative burden.
For more information, visit our Ultimate guide to Employer of Record.
Mauve Group
Mauve Group is a pioneer in the global expansion industry. With almost 30 years' experience supporting businesses in over 150 countries. Mauve operates wholly owned entities in 70 countries and works with trusted partners in the remainder.
Mauve has designed its trailblazing Employer of Record services to ensure compliance while streamlining payroll and HR processes. Many of Mauve's team members have been with the company for 10, 15 and 20+ years!
As seasoned experts, Mauve handles all the legal responsibilities of hiring and employing a global workforce. These employer responsibilities include human resource tasks like employment contracts. EORs also ensure adherence to local labour laws and the administration of benefits such as health insurance.
Mauve's top features
- Coverage in 150+ countries
- Tailored compliance advice from regional experts
- Integrated payroll and HR services
- Customisable solutions for SMEs and large enterprises
- Seasoned experts with decades of experience.
Pricing
Mauve offers tailored pricing based on company size, country, and service scope. Unlike some competitors, Mauve focuses on providing bespoke solutions rather than one-size-fits-all packages.
Why Mauve stands out
- Extensive experience and proven track record
- Local expertise through an established global partner network
- Personalised service and dedicated account management
- 4.9 out of 5 star rating on Trustpilot
- Strong reputation for compliance-first solutions
- Human-centric approach: Mauve uses technology to support, not replace human interaction.
Mauve stands out for businesses looking for a partner that combines global reach with personalised support.
Deel
Deel is a fast-growing EOR provider offering global payroll and contractor management. The industry recognises Deel for its user-friendly platform and focus on automation.
Top features
- Presence in over 100 countries
- Automated onboarding and compliance tools
- Transparent pricing through its digital platform.
Pricing
Starts at around $599 per employee per month for EOR services, with additional costs depending on country and complexity.
Oyster
Oyster is an EOR provider, focused on remote work. Oyster aims to make global employment accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Top features
- Operations in 130+ countries
- Employee benefits packages tailored to local markets
- Compliance and contractor management.
Pricing
Oyster offers tiered subscription pricing, with EOR services typically starting around $499 per employee per month.
Remote
Remote provides employer of record services alongside global HR solutions. Remote is suitable for tech companies and distributed teams.
Top features
- Coverage in 70+ countries
- Equity and benefits management
- Strong focus on data security and compliance.
Pricing
EOR services begin at around $599 per employee per month, with discounts available for larger teams.
Playroll
Overview: Playroll is an emerging EOR provider specialising in helping SMEs hire international workers and expand quickly and affordably.
Top features
- Global reach across multiple regions
- Simplified onboarding tools
- Cost-effective pricing model for smaller companies.
Pricing
Playroll positions itself as a budget-friendly option, with packages starting below $500 per employee per month depending on the country.
Choosing the right EOR provider
Selecting the right employer of record depends on a company’s needs, size, and target markets. While Deel, Oyster, Remote, and Playroll all offer competitive features and pricing, Mauve Group distinguishes itself with unmatched experience, bespoke services, and a strong reputation for compliance and reliability. For companies serious about sustainable international growth, Mauve is the partner of choice.
Employer of record services are revolutionising the way companies expand globally. By outsourcing compliance, payroll, and HR functions to trusted providers, businesses can enter new markets faster and with less risk.
Among the leading providers, Mauve Group stands out for its extensive coverage, bespoke solutions, and compliance-first approach. For 30 years, Mauve has been an ideal choice for SMEs and enterprises alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main benefit of using an Employer of Record provider?
The main benefit is the ability to hire employees abroad without establishing a local legal entity. This solution ensures compliance and reduces risk.
2. How much do Employer of Record services cost?
Pricing varies by provider and country but typically ranges between $500–$700 per employee per month. Tailored solutions are available for specific business needs.
3. Why should businesses choose Mauve Group over competitors?
Mauve Group offers almost 30 years of experience, global coverage in 150+ countries. It also provides personalised service that focuses on compliance and long-term partnerships.
International payroll services: what you need to know
Understand the essentials of international payroll services, including compliance, multi-currency payments, and the benefits of outsourcing to streamline global operations.
Navigating tax compliance through global payroll solutions
As you enter new markets and hire cross-border talent, learn how to simplify international tax compliance with Mauve's global payroll solutions.