Best Employer of Record Companies in 2025 | US Guide

For many US companies and entrepreneurs, expanding a business overseas comes with one major obstacle: how to legally hire and manage staff abroad without creating a local entity. One of the best solutions is finding the best employer of record (EOR) service that will act as the official employer on paper, handling payroll, contracts, tax filings and compliance with local labor laws, while your business retains control over day-to-day operations.

Unlike traditional outsourcing models, an employer of record allows growing businesses to onboard international employees quickly and reduce compliance risks. The EOR takes care of the legal responsibilities, from registering with foreign tax authorities to ensuring benefits align with country-specific rules, while you focus on managing your workforce and expanding into new markets. In this article, we'll go through the top EORs for US businesses.

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Employer of Record vs. PEO (Professional Employer Organization)

When comparing global hiring solutions, one question comes up frequently: What’s the difference between an employer of record (EOR) and a professional employer organization (PEO)? At first glance, both seem to offer similar services, such as compliance, payroll and benefits administration, but the underlying employment model is very different.

Professional Employer Organization

Employer of Record

A PEO operates on a co-employment basis. This means your company remains the legal employer while the PEO shares certain HR functions. You’ll still need to establish a local entity in the country where your employees are based, which adds time and costs. For businesses that already have international subsidiaries, a PEO can be a helpful way to streamline HR administration.

An EOR, on the other hand, becomes the full legal employer on your behalf. It hires staff under its own entity in each country, ensuring compliance with local labor laws from day one. This eliminates the need for your business to create subsidiaries or navigate foreign bureaucracy. For US entrepreneurs and expats expanding into new markets, this distinction is crucial: a PEO helps manage an existing workforce, while an EOR makes it possible to hire international employees immediately.1

What to Look for in the Best Employer of Record

The right provider should act as a partner that makes international hiring straightforward, compliant and scalable. An international employer of record service ensures your company stays compliant with local labor laws while supporting international employees. Here are the most important factors to evaluate before you make a decision:

Features to Loo for in an Employer of Record	Description
Compliance with Local Labor Laws	An effective EOR should have in-depth knowledge of country-specific regulations, covering everything from tax withholding and social security to benefits administration. This ensures your business avoids costly penalties and stays aligned with foreign governments.
Transparent Pricing	Look for providers that publish clear per-employee fees or flat-rate models. Unexpected charges for onboarding, contract changes or payroll adjustments can disrupt budgets. Transparent plans make it easier to forecast labor costs.
Global Coverage	Not all EORs operate in every market. The best option for your business depends on where you plan to expand and whether the provider has legal entities in those countries.
Technology and Integration	Modern EOR platforms often include dashboards, reporting tools and integrations with accounting or HR software. A strong technology foundation saves time and reduces administrative work, especially when managing multiple international employees.
Customer Support and Onboarding	The level of service matters. A reliable EOR will provide a dedicated account manager, clear onboarding steps and timely responses to compliance or payroll questions.

Best Employer of Record Companies in 2025

With dozens of providers on the market, it can be difficult to know which employer of record is the right fit for your business. Below, we’ve profiled 16 leading EOR companies, highlighting their key features, pricing, and the types of businesses they best support. This section gives you a side-by-side look at how each provider approaches compliance, payroll and global hiring so you can make an informed choice.

1. Omnipresent

Omnipresent is known for its strong support in more than 160 countries and its ability to streamline onboarding for globally distributed teams. It emphasizes compliance and employee experience.

Key Features:

• Legal entity coverage in most regions
• Payroll and benefits aligned with local requirements
• Fast, automated onboarding
• Dedicated customer success managers

Pricing: Omnipresent’s services start from £499 ($674) per employee per month, with custom pricing available for growing companies.³

Best For: Scaling businesses that want reliable compliance support and a smooth onboarding experience for international employees.

2. Rippling

Rippling combines EOR capabilities with a broader suite of HR, IT and finance tools. It helps companies not only hire abroad but also manage devices, apps and employee workflows in one place.

Key Features:

• Unified platform for payroll, benefits and compliance
• Integration with more than 500 apps
• IT and device management alongside HR
• Automated onboarding workflows

Pricing: Rippling’s pricing isn’t transparent. Their products are typically billed on a per-employee, per-month basis.⁴

Best For:: Companies that want more than just an EOR, especially those seeking an all-in-one platform for HR, IT, and compliance.

3. Atlas HXM

Atlas HXM (formerly Elements Global Services) is an enterprise-focused provider with legal entities in more than 160 countries. It positions itself as a technology-first solution for managing large international teams.

Key Features:

• Proprietary Atlas platform for workforce management
• Support in more than 50 languages
• Real-time compliance updates and workforce analytics
• Scalable solutions for enterprises

Pricing: Atlas EOR pricing starts from $599 per employee per month, with volume-based discounts available.⁵

Best For: Mid-sized to large companies that need a scalable, enterprise-grade EOR with strong technology infrastructure.

4. Horizons EOR

Horizons is a global EOR provider with a strong reputation in Asia and emerging markets. It now covers more than 180 countries worldwide.

Key Features:

• Local entity presence in key Asian markets
• Full payroll and benefits administration
• Immigration and visa support services
• Multilingual customer support

Pricing: Horizons’ EOR services generally start at $199 per employee per month, though fees vary by region and complexity.⁶

Best For: Businesses expanding into Asia or emerging markets that require local expertise along with global coverage.

5. Omni HR

Omni HR is a newer EOR provider focusing on streamlining HR operations for distributed teams. It integrates HR workflows with compliance services to simplify international hiring.

Key Features:

• Centralized HR dashboard for onboarding and employee records
• Automated payroll and benefits processing
• Compliance monitoring across supported countries
• Integration with existing HR software

Pricing: Omni HR’s pricing is custom-quoted with no transparent pricing available on the website.⁷

Best For: Small and mid-sized businesses looking for a modern, HR-driven EOR platform with user-friendly tools.

6. Remofirst

Remofirst markets itself as one of the most affordable employer of record providers, with global coverage in 185+ countries and a focus on compliance.

Key Features:

• 24/7 customer support with dedicated account managers
• Payroll, benefits and tax compliance
• Contractor and full-time employee management
• Quick onboarding in most regions

Pricing: Remofirst is highly competitive, with plans starting at just $199 per employee per month.⁸

Best For: Startups and small businesses that want a cost-effective way to compliantly hire international employees.

7. Velocity Global

Velocity Global is a US-based provider with a strong reputation for compliance and high-touch customer service. It operates in more than 185 countries.

Key Features:

• End-to-end payroll, tax and benefits compliance
• Legal entities in nearly every major global market
• Dedicated client success managers
• Tailored compliance and contract support

Pricing: Velocity Global’s EOR services start at $399/month per employee.⁹

Best For: Established businesses that prioritize compliance and personalized support when scaling globally.

8. Wisemonk Employer of Record (EOR)

Wisemonk specializes in helping businesses hire talent from India and other fast-growing markets, offering a cost-effective and compliant path to expansion.

Key Features:

• Strong focus on Indian employment compliance and payroll
• Tailored benefits packages to meet local expectations
• Support for both full-time employees and contractors
• Assistance with cultural and onboarding processes

Pricing: Wisemonk offers pricing starting at $99 per employee per month, making it one of the more affordable regional EORs.¹⁰

Best For: Businesses hiring in India or South Asia that want region-specific expertise and compliance support.

9. Skuad (Payoneer Workforce Management)

Skuad, now Payoneer Workforce Management offers a global employment platform designed for businesses that want to expand quickly without setting up foreign subsidiaries. It enables hiring in more than 160 countries and is often praised for its simple onboarding process and compliance-first approach.

Key Features:

• Global payroll and tax compliance management
• Benefits administration customized to local laws
• Integration with accounting and HR systems
• Centralized dashboard for managing international employees

Pricing: Plans typically start at $199 per full-time employee per month, making it a budget-friendly option for startups and small businesses.²

Best For: Small businesses and startups looking for affordable, compliant hiring solutions across multiple markets.

10. INS Global Employer of Record (EOR)

INS Global is a well-established provider with two decades of experience helping companies expand into Asia and Europe. It supports hiring in over 100 countries.

Key Features:

• In-depth expertise in Asian markets, especially China and Japan
• Payroll, tax and benefits compliance
• Visa and work permit services
• HR advisory and recruiting support

Pricing: Since there’s no transparent pricing info on INS Global’s website, it’s best to contact the provider directly via a form.¹¹

Best For: Companies expanding into Asia and Europe that want both EOR and HR consulting support.

11. Papaya Payroll

Papaya Global (often referred to as Papaya Payroll) is a tech-driven EOR provider that emphasizes automation and global payroll analytics. It covers more than 160 countries.

Key Features:

• Unified platform for payroll, benefits and workforce management
• Advanced analytics and reporting dashboards
• Automated compliance updates
• Contractor and freelancer management tools

Pricing: Papaya Payroll offers tailored plans without pricing available publicly on the website.¹²

Best For: Companies that want a technology-forward EOR platform with strong payroll data visibility.

12. TopSource Employer of Record

TopSource is a U.K.-based EOR provider with more than 20 years of experience. It covers over 100 countries and emphasizes customized compliance solutions.

Key Features:

• Expertise in European markets and emerging economies
• Local payroll and tax filing services
• HR support and advisory for cross-border expansion
• Customizable employee benefits administration

Pricing: TopSource pricing is quote-based and not listed transparently on the website.¹³

Best For: Small and mid-sized companies expanding into Europe or emerging markets that want tailored compliance solutions.

13. Remote People Employer of Record

Remote People offers global EOR services with coverage in more than 150 countries, focusing on simplifying payroll and compliance for distributed teams.

Key Features:

• Centralized platform for contracts, payroll, and benefits
• Local compliance in each supported market
• Contractor and full-time employee management
• Fast onboarding with digital workflows

Pricing: Remote People’s pricing starts from $199 per employee per month, making it one of the more affordable choices.¹⁴

Best For: Businesses managing remote-first teams that need straightforward global hiring and payroll support.

14. Global Squirrels

Global Squirrels positions itself as a budget-friendly EOR alternative, helping small businesses hire internationally at lower costs.

Key Features:

• Focus on affordability and fast setup
• Simplified compliance management
• Basic payroll and benefits administration
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Pricing: Plans often begin as low as $199 per employee per month, making it attractive to startups.¹⁵

Best For: Entrepreneurs and small companies that want the most affordable option for compliant international hiring.

15. Hightekers Employer of Record (EOR)

Hightekers is a European EOR with strong coverage across the EU and growing support in other regions. It emphasizes compliance and contractor-to-employee transitions.

Key Features:

• Legal entities across Europe for quick hiring
• Payroll and tax compliance with GDPR-aligned data practices
• Contractor management and conversion services
• Localized benefits packages

Pricing: Hightekers doesn’t publicly reveal their pricing, but requires contacting to get a personalized quote.¹⁶

Best For: European expansion, particularly for businesses hiring across multiple EU countries.

16. Mercans

Mercans is a boutique EOR provider focusing on personalized service and flexible HR solutions for small and mid-sized companies.

Key Features:

• Tailored HR support alongside EOR services
• Payroll and compliance coverage in 100+ countries
• White-glove onboarding experience
• Option to customize benefits packages

Pricing: Mercans is another company that offers custom pricing available on demand.¹⁷

Best For: Smaller businesses that want hands-on HR support in addition to EOR compliance.

Compliance Considerations

One of the biggest advantages of working with the best employer of record is staying compliant in multiple jurisdictions. Each country has its own set of employment laws covering payroll taxes, social security contributions, benefits, and termination rules. Missteps can result in fines, back pay or even bans on future hiring.

An EOR assumes these legal responsibilities through its local entity, ensuring every employment contract, payslip and tax filing meets local standards. This is particularly important for US entrepreneurs and expats who may be unfamiliar with foreign labor laws. By using an EOR, companies reduce the risk of worker misclassification, improper tax reporting, and non-compliance with mandatory benefits.

For small businesses, an employer of record simplifies workforce management by removing barriers to global employment.

Final Thoughts

The best employer of record will be your partner who understands local labor laws and adapts them to your international employees.

Each provider has a different strength: Payoneer Workforce Management and Remofirst stand out for affordability, Rippling and Atlas HXM for advanced technology and scalability, Horizons and INS Global for regional expertise, and Velocity Global and Papaya Payroll for comprehensive enterprise coverage. Smaller firms may lean toward budget-conscious options like Global Squirrels, while businesses seeking hands-on service can find value in boutique providers such as Mercans.

The right EOR partner depends on your company’s size, industry and expansion goals. Carefully weigh compliance capabilities, global coverage, technology and pricing to choose a provider that not only manages risk but also becomes a strategic ally in international growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is an Employer of Record (EOR)?

An employer of record is a third-party organization that legally employs staff on behalf of a company. It handles payroll, benefits, tax compliance and employment contracts while the client company directs daily work.

How Does an EOR Differ From a PEO?

A professional employer organization (PEO) requires the client to have a legal entity in the country of employment and operates under a co-employment model. An EOR, by contrast, hires workers under its own local entity, removing the need for the client to set up subsidiaries.

How Much Does an EOR Cost?

International employer of record services typically range from $199 to $499 and beyond per employee per month, depending on the provider, the country of employment, and the level of benefits administration. Some boutique or enterprise-focused providers may charge more, while others give discounts for larger volume.

What Can an EOR Do for the US Businesses Expanding Internationally?

An EOR helps US businesses hire employees abroad without registering a foreign subsidiary. It ensures compliance with local labor laws, manages payroll and benefits, and reduces the risk of penalties or misclassification.

When Should a Company Use an EOR?

An EOR is best suited for businesses entering new markets, testing global hiring, or scaling quickly without the time and cost of establishing local entities. It is also valuable for small businesses and expats managing distributed teams.

Do EORs Provide Employee Benefits?

Yes. Most EORs offer benefits packages tailored to local standards, which may include health insurance, pension contributions, paid leave and other statutory or supplemental benefits.

Is Using an EOR Legal?

Yes. EORs operate through established local entities that comply with labor, tax and social security laws in each jurisdiction. They are a legally recognized solution for hiring international employees.

Can Contractors Be Hired Through an EOR?

Many EORs also support independent contractors. They can manage contracts, ensure tax compliance and even convert contractors into full-time employees when needed.

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Sources:

1. PEO and Employer of Record Differences Explained | Pebl
2. Pricing | Skuad
3. Pricing | Omnipresent
4. Pricing | Rippling
5. Pricing | Atlas HXM
6. Pricing | Horizons
7. Employer of Record (EOR) | Omni HR
8. Pricing | Remofirst
9. EOR Pricing | Pebl
10. Pricing | Wisemonk
11. Global Employer of Record | INS Global
12. Pricing | Papaya Global
13. Employer of Record | TopSource Worldwide
14. Pricing | Remote People
15. Pricing | Global Squirrels
16. Hire Globally | Hightekers
17. Employer of Record | Mercans