Best Employer of Record India: Top 8 EOR of 2025

We've analyzed 8 top employment providers to help you choose the best solution for your global hiring needs.

Reviewed by Robbin Schuchmann

Updated September 18, 2025

Best Employer of Record India: Top 8 EOR of 2025 shortlist

I've shortlisted the top 8 EOR providers after my detailed review:

Multiplier — Companies Looking for Same-Day Global Hiring & Payments 15% Off
RemoFirst — Cost-conscious and tight budgets 1 Month Free
Rippling — Tech-forward companies with 50-1000 employees needing integrated HR and IT management 2 months free
Remote — Companies prioritizing risk-free international hiring 20% Off
Wisemonk — Hiring in India
Hire with Columbus — Cost-conscious companies with 5-50 employees seeking the absolute lowest EOR pricing available
Oyster HR — Scaling companies focused on remote team success
Papaya Global — Organizations requiring enterprise-grade payroll solutions

Hiring talent in India requires navigating a complex regulatory landscape that varies significantly across 28 states and 8 union territories. The best Employer of Record (EOR) providers for India in 2025 are Multiplier, Remote, Remofirst, and Rippling. With India’s talent acquisition market projected to grow from $4.2 billion in 2024 to $7.8 billion by 2030, according to IBEF research, companies are increasingly turning to EOR solutions to access India’s vast talent pool without legal complexity.

Each Employer of Record offers distinct advantages for the Indian market. Multiplier excels with its comprehensive compliance management across all Indian states and deep expertise in local labor laws. Remote provides superior intellectual property protection through its owned-entity model, particularly valuable in India’s growing tech and R&D sectors. Remofirst delivers the most affordable India EOR solution starting at just $199 per employee monthly, making it accessible for startups and SMEs entering the market.

We evaluated these India-specialized EOR providers based on multiple criteria: expertise in India’s complex multi-state regulations, ability to navigate the 2022 Labor Code reforms, support for India’s mandatory benefits systems, and effectiveness in managing regional hiring variations. Our assessment draws from EOR provider performance data, customer experiences across different Indian regions, and compliance track records with evolving regulations.

The right Employer of Record simplifies expansion into India’s dynamic market by handling the complex regulatory requirements, including state-specific labor laws, mandatory provident fund contributions, gratuity payments, and evolving compliance standards. With salary increments averaging 9.7% across industries and specialized talent centers emerging beyond traditional hubs, companies need EOR partners with deep local expertise and proven track records in India’s unique business environment.

Best Employers of Record in India overview

Our detailed comparison helps you navigate through the leading providers. Each EOR provider has been carefully reviewed based on their service quality, pricing transparency, and implementation efficiency.

#	Provider	Rating	EOR Pricing	Actions
1	Multiplier 15% Off	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.7	$400/mo	Claim exclusive offer
2	RemoFirst 1 Month Free	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.5	$199/mo	Claim exclusive offer
3	Rippling 2 months free	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.8	$499/mo	Claim exclusive offer
4	Remote 20% Off	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.6	$599/mo	Claim exclusive offer
5	Wisemonk	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.7	$99/mo	Learn more
6	Hire with Columbus	-	$179/mo	Learn more
7	Oyster HR	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.3	$599/mo	Learn more
8	Papaya Global	★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.5	$599/mo	Learn more

Provider

Multiplier 15% Off

$400/mo

Claim exclusive offer

RemoFirst 1 Month Free

$199/mo

Claim exclusive offer

Rippling 2 months free

$499/mo

Claim exclusive offer

Remote 20% Off

$599/mo

Claim exclusive offer

Wisemonk

$99/mo

Learn more

Hire with Columbus

$179/mo

Learn more

Oyster HR

$599/mo

Learn more

Papaya Global

$599/mo

Learn more

Reviews of the best EOR services

I've analyzed the top EOR providers in detail to help you make the right choice for your business. Below, you'll find detailed reviews of each service, including their key features, pricing, and what makes them stand out. Whether you're a startup looking for basic coverage or an enterprise needing advanced tools, these reviews will guide you to the perfect match.

Multiplier

15% Off

Companies Looking for Same-Day Global Hiring & Payments

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.8 (3,908 reviews)

Claim exclusive 15% Off

What is Multiplier?

Multiplier is an Employer of Record (EOR) and global employment platform that enables businesses to hire and manage international teams without establishing local entities. Founded in 2020 by Sagar Khatri, Amritpal Singh, and Vamsi Krishna, the company has secured over $77 million in funding and is headquartered in Sydney, Australia.

The platform specializes in streamlining global employment by handling compliance, payroll, benefits, and contractor management across 150+ countries. When testing Multiplier, I found its rapid onboarding capabilities particularly impressive, making it suitable for businesses needing to establish international teams quickly.

Multiplier primarily serves small to medium-sized businesses and startups entering global markets, with notable strength in the Asia-Pacific region where its localized expertise provides significant advantages for hiring and compliance.

Key features of Multiplier

Global hiring without entities: Multiplier handles employment in 150+ countries without requiring you to establish legal entities, with same-day onboarding in many locations saving 3-6 months compared to traditional expansion methods.
Multi-currency payroll processing: The platform manages payments in 120+ currencies with automatic tax calculations, deductions, and social contributions all from a unified dashboard.
Comprehensive compliance management: Multiplier creates legally-compliant contracts in multiple languages and handles all local regulations, significantly reducing legal risks in complex markets like Europe and Asia.
Localized benefits administration: Offers competitive insurance and customizable benefits packages specific to each country, though less extensive than some premium alternatives.
Integrated contractor management: Process payments to international freelancers for just $40 monthly per contractor, with misclassification protection and currency flexibility.
Time-off management system: Multiplier automatically calculates country-specific leave entitlements and public holidays, ensuring compliance with local regulations while providing employees with a simple request interface.
Expense management tools: The platform streamlines international expense submissions, approval workflows, and reimbursements across different currencies, eliminating manual reconciliation processes.

Pros

Competitive EOR pricing
Multiplier offers EOR services at $400 per employee monthly, positioning it more affordably than premium competitors like Deel and Remote ($599).
Asia-Pacific regional expertise
Multiplier demonstrates particular strength in Singapore, Australia, and Japan, making it ideal for companies targeting these markets.
Same-day global hiring
The platform enables businesses to onboard international employees within 24 hours, significantly faster than traditional entity setup.
Multi-currency payroll capabilities
Multiplier processes payments in over 120 currencies with automatic tax calculations and deductions across 150+ countries.
Comprehensive compliance management
The service handles local labor laws, creates compliant contracts, and manages country-specific requirements, minimizing legal risks.
No hidden setup fees
Unlike some competitors, Multiplier doesn't charge additional costs for onboarding, offboarding, or initial setup.

Cons

Confusing interface navigation
Many users report initial difficulties with the platform's user interface, requiring additional guidance to use effectively.
Slower email support response
Customer service via email can be delayed compared to chat support, potentially impacting time-sensitive issues.
Limited customization options
The platform offers fewer personalization features than some competitors, restricting adaptability for specific business needs.
Business hours only support
Unlike competitors offering 24/7 assistance, Multiplier's support team is available during standard business hours only.

Multiplier pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	400
Contractor management	40

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	1,621 reviews
Capterra	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	42 reviews
Trustpilot	4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	2,245 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Phone, Live Chat
Support Availability	Business Hours

Best for

Companies Looking for Same-Day Global Hiring & Payments

Read full Multiplier review →

RemoFirst

1 Month Free

Cost-conscious and tight budgets

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.6 (248 reviews)

Claim exclusive 1 Month Free

What is RemoFirst?

RemoFirst is an Employer of Record (EOR) service that lets companies hire and pay international employees without setting up local legal entities. Founded in 2021 by Nurasyl Serik and Volodymyr Fedoriv, this San Francisco company has attracted smaller businesses and startups with $39 million in funding.

When you use RemoFirst, they technically “hire” through their local entities in 180+ countries. RemoFirst handles the legal employment paperwork, local tax compliance, payroll processing, and benefits administration, while you manage the day-to-day work. This setup saves the 3-6 months and $15,000-$50,000 usually needed to set up foreign entities.

The platform serves two main purposes:

Full EOR services for companies hiring employees internationally
Contractor management for businesses working with global freelancers

What makes RemoFirst different is their pricing – starting at $199 per employee per month, they charge much less than competitors like Deel and Remote (both $599/month). This aggressive pricing has helped them gain market share despite being newer than other players.

Key features of RemoFirst

Global employment services: RemoFirst functions as the legal employer in 180+ countries, handling all the paperwork and compliance so companies don't have to establish foreign entities. They generate compliant employment contracts, register employees with local authorities, and ensure adherence to local labor laws. RemoFirst maintains consistent pricing across all supported countries.
Multi-Currency payroll processing: RemoFirst calculates and processes payroll in 100+ currencies, handling tax withholdings, social contributions, and mandatory deductions based on local requirements. The system supports monthly, bi-weekly, and weekly payment cycles, with monthly being the standard for most countries.
Global contractor management: For $25 per contractor monthly, RemoFirst provides compliant contractor agreements, handles invoicing, and manages payments in local currencies. The contractor dashboard is separate from the employee section but follows a similar workflow.
Benefits administration:RemoFirst's RemoHealth program offers standardized health plans across all countries, with options to add dental and vision coverage. The platform also supports equipment provisioning, allowing companies to purchase and ship laptops and other tools to remote team members.
Compliance management: The platform automatically handles tax filings, statutory requirements, and employment law compliance across all countries. This includes managing paid time off policies, parental leave, termination requirements, and other country-specific regulations.
Time off management: Employees can request time off through the platform, with automatic calculations based on local entitlements. Managers receive notifications and can approve/deny requests directly in the system. The calendar view makes it easy to see team availability.

Pros

Lowest EOR pricing available
RemoFirst charges just $199 per employee monthly, making it 60-75% cheaper than Deel ($599) and Remote ($599), saving companies up to $48,000 annually for a 10-person international team.
Fast employee onboarding
RemoFirst completes employee setup within 5-7 business days across all countries, while establishing your own entities takes 3-6 months. Most employees are fully onboarded within a week according to user reports.
Complete compliance handling
The platform manages all local employment regulations, tax filings, and statutory requirements in every country, eliminating compliance risks that cost companies $10,000+ in penalties per violation.
Affordable contractor management
Beyond EOR services, RemoFirst handles contractor payments for just $25 monthly per contractor, undercutting Deel ($49) by 50% and most other providers.
No surprise costs
Unlike many competitors who charge different rates by country or add unexpected fees, RemoFirst maintains flat global pricing with no setup fees, deposits, or minimum commitments.
Global benefits program
Companies can provide employees standardized health insurance across all countries through RemoHealth, boosting recruitment appeal without navigating multiple local providers.
Simple interface
The platform uses clean, minimal design that requires little training for HR staff, with most users navigating core functions within their first session.

Cons

Basic reporting tools
RemoFirst's analytics lack the depth found in enterprise options like Rippling, offering only fundamental workforce data without custom dashboards or visualization options. Companies need separate tools for detailed workforce analytics.
Few integration options
The platform supports fewer third-party integrations than older competitors, creating manual work when connecting with popular HRIS, accounting, and payroll systems. Users report difficulties connecting with some project management software.
New platform limitations
As an EOR provider founded in 2021, RemoFirst is still developing features that older competitors already offer, including multi-country payroll consolidation and tax planning tools.
Limited country customization
The platform offers few localization options for employment contracts and policies, creating challenges for companies with specialized regional requirements or those operating in highly regulated industries.

RemoFirst pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	199
Contractor management	25

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	209 reviews
Capterra	5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	2 reviews
Trustpilot	3.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	37 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Live Chat
Support Availability	24/7

Best for

Cost-conscious and tight budgets

Read full RemoFirst review →

Rippling

2 months free

Tech-forward companies with 50-1000 employees needing integrated HR and IT management

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.8 (15,454 reviews)

Claim exclusive 2 months free

What is Rippling?

Rippling is an all-in-one workforce management platform that connects HR, IT, and finance functions through a unified employee database. Founded in 2016 by Parker Conrad (former Zenefits CEO) and Prasanna Sankar, the company has raised over $700 million in funding and now supports businesses operating in more than 50 countries.

The platform specializes in automating workflows across traditionally separate business systems, making it particularly valuable for companies struggling with disconnected tools. When I tested Rippling, I found the employee onboarding process remarkably efficient – adding someone to payroll automatically triggered their laptop order, email setup, and software provisioning without manual intervention.

Rippling primarily serves mid-sized tech companies and growing businesses with distributed teams who need sophisticated systems but lack enterprise-level IT departments.

Key features of Rippling

Global employment solutions: Rippling's EOR service lets companies hire in 50+ countries without legal entities, handling all contracts, tax registrations, and compliance while keeping international employees in the same system as domestic teams.
Unified employee management: Built around a central database that serves as a single source of truth, automatically updating all connected systems when information changes anywhere, significantly reducing administrative errors.
Automated IT management: Handles device procurement, configuration, and security for distributed teams. Automatically orders equipment based on role templates, pre-installs software, and enforces security policies before devices reach employees.
Customizable payroll processing: Manages domestic and international employees, contractors, and part-time workers through one interface, calculating appropriate taxes and deductions based on location, with reports that segment costs by department or project.
Role-based access control: Implements sophisticated permission settings beyond basic admin/user distinctions, allowing custom access profiles based on department, seniority, or location, with centralized permission management across all integrated applications. RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

Pros

Deep system integration
Rippling connects HR, IT, and finance systems into one platform, eliminating data silos that plague companies using separate tools for each function.
Powerful automation features
Rippling reduces manual workload by automating employee lifecycle processes from hiring to offboarding across all connected systems and countries.
Complete device management
Unlike most EOR providers, Rippling handles laptop ordering, software installation, and security setup for remote teams worldwide.
500+ app integrations
Rippling connects with more business applications than most competitors, creating a true unified workspace.
Custom workflow builder
The platform lets companies build tailored approval chains and processes that match their specific organizational structure.

Cons

Confusing pricing structure
Rippling's modular approach makes it hard to predict total costs without detailed consultation, as each component adds to the base fee.
Steep learning curve
The platform's many capabilities require major time investment during setup, particularly for HR teams used to simpler systems.
Variable customer support
Response times change widely based on issue complexity and support tier, with some users reporting multi-day waits for resolution.

Rippling pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	499
Contractor management	35
Global payroll	35

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.8 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	9,814 reviews
Capterra	4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4,082 reviews
Trustpilot	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	1,558 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Phone, Live Chat
Support Availability	Business Hours

Best for

Tech-forward companies with 50-1000 employees needing integrated HR and IT management

Read full Rippling review →

Remote

20% Off

Companies prioritizing risk-free international hiring

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.7 (6,598 reviews)

Claim exclusive 20% Off

What is Remote?

Remote is an Employer of Record (EOR) service that enables companies to hire international employees without establishing local entities. Founded in 2019 by Job van der Voort and Marcelo Lebre (former GitLab executives), Remote has raised over $500 million in funding and grown rapidly to support hiring in more than 180 countries.

The platform handles the entire employment lifecycle – from compliant contracts and onboarding to payroll, benefits, taxes, and termination – all through a centralized dashboard. Unlike many competitors, Remote owns its legal entities in each country rather than partnering with third-party providers, giving them direct control over employment processes.

The platform is particularly well-suited for companies prioritizing compliance and risk management in their global expansion strategy. Remote’s owned-entity approach means they don’t outsource employment responsibilities to local partners, potentially reducing compliance risks and providing stronger IP protections.

Key features of Remote

Global employment solutions: Enables hiring in over 180 countries without establishing local entities, supporting rapid international expansion. The platform handles all employment documentation, contracts, and compliance requirements through their owned legal entities in each country.
Owned entity model:Operates its own legal entities in each country rather than partnering with local providers. This approach gives them greater control over billing, employee experience, and data protection, resulting in stronger compliance management and IP protection.
Transparent pricing: Offers flat-rate pricing starting at $599 per employee per month for annual plans, with no hidden fees or minimum commitments across all countries. The consistent pricing structure makes budgeting predictable for finance teams.
Comprehensive HR services: Manages the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, payroll, benefits, and compliance with local regulations. Remote handles document collection, background checks, tax registration, and ongoing employment administration.
Intellectual property protection: Provides Remote IP Guard to ensure strong intellectual property protections for clients across all jurisdictions. The system includes specialized IP clauses in all employment contracts, tailored to each country's legal framework.
User-friendly platform: Features an intuitive interface for managing both employees and contractors globally with minimal training required. The onboarding workflow guides users through country-specific requirements without overwhelming them with complexity.
Flexible benefits administration: Offers competitive, localized benefits packages with multiple tiers in most markets, including health insurance and pension plans. The system allows for some customization while ensuring compliance with local requirements.
Global payroll solution: Recently introduced Remote Global Payroll for companies with existing entities, streamlining multi-country payroll management. The system handles tax calculations, deductions, and compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
Compliance and security: Incorporates built-in compliance features like Remote Watchtower and adheres to global data protection regulations. The platform automatically handles tax filings, statutory requirements, and employment law compliance across all countries.
Equity incentives support: Provides compliant equity incentives support, including withholding and reporting. This feature helps companies offer stock options and other equity compensation to international employees while maintaining compliance with local tax laws.

Pros

Own-entity model in 180+ countries
Remote maintains its own legal entities rather than using third-party partners, giving them direct control over employment processes and compliance in every location they serve.
Superior IP protection
Remote's IP Guard feature provides stronger intellectual property safeguards than most competitors, with clear ownership documentation and protection mechanisms across all jurisdictions.
Transparent flat-rate pricing
Remote charges $599 per employee monthly with no hidden fees, setup costs, or minimum commitments, making budgeting predictable for finance teams.
Extensive HR service coverage
The platform handles everything from onboarding to offboarding, including benefits administration, global payroll, and compliance management through a single dashboard.
Localized benefits packages
Remote offers competitive, country-specific benefits that help companies attract top talent globally while remaining compliant with local requirements.
Recently launched global payroll solution
Companies with existing international entities can now use Remote's payroll services separately, simplifying multi-country payroll management.

Cons

Premium pricing structure
At $599 per employee monthly, Remote costs significantly more than budget-friendly alternatives like Remofirst ($199/month), making it expensive for smaller companies.
Limited customization options
The platform's standardized approach works well for most situations but offers less flexibility for companies with unique employment arrangements or non-standard benefits needs.
Basic reporting capabilities
Remote's analytics and reporting functions lack the depth found in some enterprise HR platforms, offering limited customization for complex workforce insights.

Remote pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	599
Contractor management	29
Global payroll	29

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4,097 reviews
Capterra	4.4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	93 reviews
Trustpilot	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	2,408 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Live Chat
Support Availability	24/7

Best for

Companies prioritizing risk-free international hiring

Read full Remote review →

Wisemonk

Hiring in India

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.9 (154 reviews)

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What is Wisemonk?

Wisemonk is an India-focused Employer of Record (EOR) and HR platform that enables global companies to hire, pay, and manage employees and contractors in India without establishing their own legal entity. Founded specifically to solve the challenges of Indian employment compliance, the platform has developed deep expertise in navigating India’s complex regulatory environment.

Unlike global EOR providers that cover India as just one of many countries, Wisemonk concentrates exclusively on the Indian market, allowing for specialized knowledge of local requirements like Provident Fund management, statutory benefits, and tax regulations. This focused approach results in faster onboarding, more nuanced compliance support, and lower pricing than global alternatives.

The platform handles all aspects of employment in India, from generating compliant contracts to managing payroll, benefits, equipment procurement, and ongoing HR support. When I tested Wisemonk, I found the local expertise particularly valuable for understanding India-specific employment nuances that global providers often miss.

Wisemonk’s services appeal primarily to:

Foreign companies entering the Indian market

Startups hiring their first employees in India

SMBs and mid-market companies building Indian teams

Organizations needing contractor management in India

Key features of Wisemonk

Indian employment compliance: Wisemonk manages all aspects of legal employment in India, automatically generating compliant contracts, handling registration with authorities, and ensuring adherence to evolving regulations specific to different Indian states and sectors.
India-optimized payroll processing: The platform handles all mandatory deductions, tax withholdings, and social contributions required under Indian law, supporting multiple pay cycles with payments in Indian Rupees (INR) and transparent exchange rates.
Tax optimization strategies: Wisemonk provides specialized tax planning within India's framework, potentially increasing employee take-home pay by 15-20% through strategic compensation structuring while maintaining full compliance.
Equipment procurement and management: The service handles the entire lifecycle of equipment for remote employees in India, from procurement and delivery to inventory tracking and retrieval, eliminating cross-border logistics headaches.
India-specific benefits administration: Wisemonk offers customizable benefits packages designed for the Indian market, handling health insurance, Provident Fund management, and additional benefits like meal allowances and transportation support.
Contractor management: For businesses working with Indian freelancers, Wisemonk provides compliant contractor agreements, handles invoicing, and manages payments in INR, with pricing starting at just $9 per contractor monthly.
Employee self-service portal: A centralized dashboard allows Indian employees to manage their employment experience, including accessing pay slips, requesting time off, and handling documentation specific to Indian requirements.

Pros

Lowest India EOR pricing
Wisemonk offers the most affordable Employer of Record services for India starting at just $99 per employee monthly, significantly undercutting global EOR providers charging $599+ for the same market.
Rapid 2-day onboarding
Wisemonk processes new hires in just 48 hours, letting companies tap into Indian talent pools 3-5 days faster than global EOR alternatives that typically take 5-7 days for India.
Deep local compliance expertise
Wisemonk specializes exclusively in Indian employment law, providing unmatched knowledge of Provident Fund regulations, tax requirements, and statutory benefits that generalist EORs often lack.
Equipment procurement and delivery
The platform handles all aspects of laptop and equipment purchasing, delivery, and management for Indian workers, eliminating cross-border logistics headaches.
India-based HR support team
Wisemonk provides dedicated local HR business partners with intimate knowledge of Indian workplace culture and regulations, offering more relevant support than global providers.
Employee tax optimization
The service includes specialized strategies to minimize employee tax burdens within India's complex tax system, helping maximize take-home pay and improve talent attraction.
Fully-managed benefits administration
Wisemonk handles all aspects of Indian health insurance, Provident Fund, and statutory benefits with customizable options beyond mandatory minimums.

Cons

Limited to India only
Wisemonk's service currently operates exclusively in India, requiring companies hiring in multiple countries to use additional providers for their global workforce.
Developing interface features
Some users report the dashboard could benefit from more advanced filtering and reporting options compared to global EOR platforms with more development resources.
No AI-powered support options
Unlike some global competitors, Wisemonk doesn't currently offer chatbot or AI-assisted support, relying instead on human support teams.
Basic integration ecosystem
The platform supports fewer third-party integrations than established global competitors, potentially creating manual workflows for some HR and financial systems.
Limited global expansion roadmap
Companies hoping to use Wisemonk beyond India may need to wait, as the service hasn't announced concrete plans for expansion to other countries.

Wisemonk pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	99
Contractor management	19

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	153 reviews
Capterra	5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	1 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Phone
Support Availability	Business Hours

Best for

Hiring in India

Read full Wisemonk review →

Hire with Columbus

Cost-conscious companies with 5-50 employees seeking the absolute lowest EOR pricing available

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0

Visit website

What is Hire with Columbus?

Hire with Columbus is an Employer of Record (EOR) service that enables companies to hire and pay international employees without establishing local legal entities. Operating as a high-volume discount provider, Columbus has positioned itself as the most affordable EOR solution by leveraging bulk purchasing power.

When you use Hire with Columbus, they technically employ workers through their partner entities in 180+ countries. Columbus manages the legal employment paperwork, local tax compliance, payroll processing, and benefits administration, while you handle day-to-day work management. This arrangement saves the 3-6 months and $15,000-$50,000 typically required for foreign entity establishment.

The platform serves two primary functions:

Full EOR services for companies hiring employees internationally
Contractor management for businesses working with global freelancers

What distinguishes Columbus is their pricing model, at $179 per employee per month, they offer a 10% discount on standard market rates through volume aggregation. This approach makes enterprise-level EOR services accessible to smaller businesses that previously couldn’t afford international expansion.

Columbus operates through strategic partnerships with established EOR providers, negotiating bulk rates based on aggregate client volumes. This model allows them to offer premium services at significantly reduced costs while maintaining compliance standards across all jurisdictions.

Key features of Hire with Columbus

Global employment infrastructure: Columbus operates as the legal employer in 180+ countries through their partner network, managing all paperwork and compliance requirements. They generate locally-compliant employment contracts, register employees with authorities, and ensure adherence to labor laws. Columbus maintains their aggressive $179 pricing across all supported countries without regional surcharges.
Multi-currency payroll automation: Columbus calculates and processes payroll in 100+ currencies, handling tax withholdings, social contributions, and mandatory deductions based on local requirements. The system accommodates monthly, bi-weekly, and weekly payment cycles depending on country standards. All currency conversions happen at competitive rates through their volume partnerships.
Contractor management solution: For $22.50 per contractor monthly, Columbus provides compliant contractor agreements, manages invoicing, and processes payments in local currencies. This represents a 10% discount on standard market rates while maintaining full compliance with contractor classification requirements.
Global benefits coordination: Columbus's benefits network offers standardized health plans across all countries, with options for dental and vision coverage. The platform also facilitates equipment provisioning, enabling companies to purchase and ship laptops and tools to remote team members efficiently.
Compliance automation: The platform automatically manages tax filings, statutory requirements, and employment law compliance across all countries. This includes handling paid time off policies, parental leave, termination requirements, and other country-specific regulations through their partner infrastructure.

Pros

Industry's lowest pricing
Hire with Columbus charges just $179 per employee monthly, making it the most affordable EOR service available – 70% cheaper than Deel ($599) and saving companies over $50,000 annually for a 10-person team.
Quick employee onboarding
Columbus completes full employee setup within 5-7 business days across 180+ countries, eliminating the 3-6 month wait required for establishing independent legal entities.
Compliance management
The platform handles all local employment regulations, tax filings, and statutory requirements in every operating country, protecting companies from compliance penalties that average $10,000+ per violation.
Budget-friendly contractor services
Columbus manages contractor payments for just $22.50 monthly per contractor, undercutting competitors like Deel ($49) by over 50% while maintaining full compliance.
Transparent flat-rate pricing
Unlike many competitors who vary rates by country or add hidden fees, Columbus maintains consistent global pricing with no setup fees, deposits, or minimum commitments required.
International benefits administration
Companies can provide standardized health insurance packages across all countries through Columbus's global benefits network, improving recruitment without navigating multiple local providers.

Cons

Limited platform ownership
Hire with Columbus operates through partner infrastructure rather than proprietary technology, potentially affecting service consistency and direct control over platform improvements.
Basic reporting functionality
The analytics tools lack advanced features found in premium alternatives, offering only fundamental workforce data without extensive customization or visualization capabilities.

Hire with Columbus pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	179
Contractor management	22.50

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Live Chat
Support Availability	24/7

Best for

Cost-conscious companies with 5-50 employees seeking the absolute lowest EOR pricing available

Read full Hire with Columbus review →

Oyster HR

Scaling companies focused on remote team success

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.6 (1,525 reviews)

Visit website

What is Oyster HR?

Oyster is an Employer of Record (EOR) platform that enables companies to hire and manage international employees across 180+ countries without establishing local business entities. Founded in 2020, the company has raised over $150 million in funding and specializes in remote-first employment solutions.

Unlike traditional EOR providers focused purely on compliance, Oyster emphasizes the employee experience with features like Oyster Academy for professional development and cultural integration tools. The platform handles employment contracts, payroll processing, benefits administration, and local compliance while providing additional services for building engaged distributed teams.

Oyster primarily serves mid-market to enterprise companies with 50+ employees who prioritize employee satisfaction and long-term retention over minimal-cost hiring solutions.

Key features of Oyster HR

Global hiring platform: Simplifies hiring across borders, managing everything from job postings to employment contracts in over 180 countries.
Compliance management: Ensures adherence to local labor laws and regulations in each country, minimizing legal risks.
Payroll processing: Handles payroll calculations, payments, and tax withholdings in over 120 currencies.
Benefits administration: Offers locally aligned benefits packages with multiple tiers in most markets.
Contractor management: Allows management of both employees and contractors on the same platform, with easy conversion options.
Global payroll solution: Recently introduced for companies with existing entities, expanding service offerings.
Visa and immigration support: Assists with work visa and immigration processes for international hires.
Oyster Academy: Provides a platform for upskilling employees, enhancing talent development.

Pros

Employee development focus
Oyster Academy provides upskilling platforms and career development resources, making it stand out from basic EOR providers focused only on compliance and payroll.
Remote-first platform design
Oyster's interface specifically caters to distributed teams with features like cultural integration tools and virtual onboarding workflows that competitors lack.
Global coverage
Oyster operates in 180+ countries with locally-aligned benefits packages, giving companies access to broader talent pools than regional EOR providers.
Transparent compliance management
Oyster's platform provides real-time updates on changing labor laws across all operating countries, reducing legal risks for rapidly scaling companies.
Integrated cost calculator
Oyster's built-in salary and benefits calculator helps estimate total employment costs across different countries before hiring, unlike competitors requiring separate tools.
Ethical employment standards
Oyster emphasizes fair compensation and social responsibility, appealing to companies prioritizing ethical global expansion over pure cost optimization.

Cons

Premium pricing
Can be expensive compared to some competitors, with EOR services starting at $599 per employee per month.
Feature limitations
Some features require additional purchases, potentially increasing costs.
Hidden add-on costs
Oyster charges extra for salary bands, visa sponsorship, and premium benefits packages that other providers include in base pricing, undermining their "transparent pricing" claims.
Limited self-service options
Oyster requires more human intervention for routine tasks compared to platforms like Deel, potentially slowing down urgent hiring needs.

Oyster HR pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	599
Contractor management	29
Global payroll	25

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.3 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	1,180 reviews
Capterra	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	91 reviews
Trustpilot	4.4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	254 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Live Chat
Support Availability	Business Hours

Best for

Scaling companies focused on remote team success

Read full Oyster HR review →

Papaya Global

Organizations requiring enterprise-grade payroll solutions

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.2 (107 reviews)

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What is Papaya Global?

Papaya Global is a comprehensive global workforce management platform that offers solutions for payroll, payments, and workforce management across multiple countries. Here are the key points to understand about Papaya Global:

- Global Payroll: Papaya Global provides end-to-end payroll processing and workforce payments for employees in over 160 countries.

- Employer of Record (EOR) Services: The platform enables companies to hire employees in countries where they don’t have a legal entity, simplifying international expansion.

- Contractor Management: Papaya Global offers compliant management and payment solutions for global contractors.

- Unified Platform: It combines payroll, payments, and workforce management in a single system, allowing businesses to manage employees, contractors, and EOR workers efficiently.

- Compliance Assistance: The platform helps organizations navigate complex international regulations and tax requirements.

- Benefits Management: Papaya Global provides a unified benefits plan that covers employees worldwide, including both physical and mental health coverage.

- Fast Implementation: Companies can typically go live with Papaya Global in just a few weeks.

- Integrations: The platform integrates with leading tools like Workday, Netsuite, and other HCM/HRIS, expense management, time and attendance, and ERP systems.

Founded in 2016, Papaya Global has grown to serve companies expanding globally or hiring international talent. It simplifies global hiring by providing local expertise and support in over 160 countries, automating many aspects of payroll and workforce management to reduce manual work and potential errors.

Key features of Papaya Global

Global payroll management: Supports payroll processing in 160+ countries and multiple currencies, ensuring accurate and timely payments.
Embedded payments: Offers near-instantaneous payments in local currencies through its regulated payments network, minimizing payroll leakage.
Compliance management: Ensures adherence to local labor laws and regulations across all operational countries, reducing legal risks.
HR and payroll analytics: Provides detailed reporting and predictive analytics, offering insights for strategic decision-making.
Employee self-service Portal: Allows employees to access payroll data, pay stubs, and PTO information, enhancing transparency and reducing HR workload.
Benefits administration: Offers competitive, locally-aligned benefits packages tailored to each country's norms and expectations.
Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM): Helps create and maintain compliant contracts, streamlining the hiring process.
AI-powered automation: Reduces manual work in payroll calculations and tax submissions, increasing efficiency and accuracy.

Pros

Global coverage
Operates in 160+ countries, providing broad international reach.
User-friendly interface
Offers an intuitive platform and employee portal for easy navigation.
Strong compliance management
Ensures adherence to local labor laws and regulations.
Fast and secure payments
Provides near-instantaneous payments in local currencies through its regulated network.
Comprehensive analytics
Offers detailed reporting and predictive analytics for informed decision-making.
Dedicated support
Provides dedicated account managers for Payroll Plus and EOR services.

Cons

Premium pricing
Can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses or those with fewer international employees.
Complex EOR model
Uses an aggregator model for EOR services, which may be complex for some users.
Limited HR features
Offers fewer HR functionalities compared to some competitors focusing more on HR management.
Less transparent fees
Management and setup fees may not be as clearly communicated as core service pricing.

Papaya Global pricing

Service type	Pricing
EOR Pricing	599
Contractor management	30

Platform reviews

Platform	Rating	Reviews
G2	4.5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	38 reviews
Capterra	4.4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	35 reviews
Trustpilot	2.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	34 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature	Details
Support Channels	Email, Live Chat
Support Availability	24/7

Best for

Organizations requiring enterprise-grade payroll solutions

Read full Papaya Global review →

Complete provider comparison

Key metrics	Multiplier	RemoFirst	Rippling	Remote	Wisemonk	Hire with Columbus	Oyster HR	Papaya Global
EOR Pricing	$400 /month	$199 /month	$499 /month	$599 /month	$99 /month	$179 /month	$599 /month	$599 /month
Contractor pricing	$40 /month	$25 /month	$35 /month	$29 /month	$19 /month	$22.50 /month	$29 /month	$30 /month
Payroll pricing	—	—	$35 /month	$29 /month	—	—	$25 /month	—
G2 rating	4.7 ★★★★★	4.5 ★★★★★	4.8 ★★★★★	4.6 ★★★★★	4.7 ★★★★★	No rating	4.3 ★★★★★	4.5 ★★★★★
Country coverage	150+ countries	185+ countries	185+ countries	186+ countries	7+ countries	185+ countries	180+ countries	160+ countries
Support channels	Email, Phone, Live Chat	Email, Live Chat	Email, Phone, Live Chat	Email, Live Chat	Email, Phone	Email, Live Chat	Email, Live Chat	Email, Live Chat
Support availability	Business Hours	24/7	Business Hours	24/7	Business Hours	24/7	Business Hours	24/7
Annual discount	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available	✓ Available
Visit website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website	Visit Website

Why our EOR reviews are the most reliable & trusted

Our EOR reviews are the most reliable and trusted due to our specialized evaluation criteria, comprehensive data sources, and rigorous analysis methods. We evaluate EOR providers on India-specific capabilities including multi-state compliance expertise, understanding of India’s 2022 Labor Codes, PF/ESI management systems, and regional presence across key Indian business hubs.

Our data sources include direct testing of EOR platforms with Indian employment scenarios, interviews with HR managers using EOR services in India, and analysis of implementation success across different Indian states. For instance, we verified that Remote has successfully implemented PF compliance across all Indian states, while Multiplier has demonstrated particular expertise in Karnataka’s specific labor regulations.

Our analysis methods include comparative testing across multiple Indian cities, verification of specific compliance capabilities with Indian regulations, and evaluation of support quality for India-specific HR challenges. This India-focused approach ensures our recommendations address the unique complexities of India’s employment landscape.

Why use an employer of record in India?

India presents unique opportunities and challenges for international businesses. An Employer of Record (EOR) in India acts as a legal employer on behalf of foreign companies, handling complex HR functions including payroll, tax compliance, benefits administration, and employment contracts—all while navigating India’s multi-state regulatory environment.

What makes India’s EOR market unique?

India’s employment landscape features:

State-specific labor laws: Regulations vary significantly across 28 states and 8 union territories
Complex regulatory system: Multiple labor codes with state-specific implementation
Mandatory benefits requirements: Including Provident Fund (PF), gratuity, and Employee State Insurance (ESI)
Regional talent variations: Specialized talent pools in different cities and states
Growing remote work adoption: 67% of organizations implementing flexible policies

Benefits of using an EOR in India

Rapid workforce expansion in key Indian markets

Expanding your team in India’s specialized talent centers requires local expertise. Top EORs maintain entities across major Indian tech and business hubs, allowing you to hire talent in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and emerging centers like Pune and Jaipur. This geographical flexibility helps companies access specialized talent pools—from IT expertise in Bengaluru to manufacturing specialists in Gujarat—without establishing multiple legal entities.

Compliance with India’s complex regulatory environment

India’s labor laws vary significantly across states and are undergoing reform with the new Labor Codes. EORs specializing in India maintain dedicated legal teams with expertise in both central and state-specific regulations. They handle mandatory Provident Fund contributions (currently 12% of basic salary), Employee State Insurance (ESI) requirements, Professional Tax variations by state, and gratuity calculations, which differ significantly from Western markets.

Time and cost savings through local expertise

Setting up a legal entity in India typically takes 3-6 months and costs between $15,000-$25,000 in initial setup, plus ongoing compliance costs. EOR services eliminate these expenses while providing immediate hiring capabilities. Companies using EORs in India report average setup cost savings of 60-75% compared to entity establishment, with typical implementation timelines reduced from months to 5-7 business days.

Accurate payroll processing with India-specific requirements

India’s payroll requirements include complex tax structures that vary by state and income level. EORs automate calculations for:

Income Tax (slabs ranging from 5-30%)
Professional Tax (state-specific)
Provident Fund contributions
Gratuity accruals
Bonus provisions
Leave encashment

Leading EORs offer multi-currency payment options essential for companies remunerating employees in Indian Rupees while managing corporate finances in other currencies.

What India-specific factors should you consider when selecting an EOR?

India employment expertise

Select an EOR with demonstrated expertise in India’s unique employment landscape. When evaluating providers, consider:

Experience with India’s new Labor Codes: Verify the EOR’s understanding of the four consolidated labor codes and implementation timelines
Track record in your target states: Employment regulations vary significantly between Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and other states
Industry-specific compliance knowledge: Requirements differ for IT, manufacturing, financial services, and other sectors

Cost-effectiveness for India operations

India EOR pricing models typically include:

Fixed monthly fee per employee: Ranging from $199-$599
Additional service fees: For specialized compliance, benefits administration, or termination handling
Setup fees: Some providers charge initial implementation costs

When comparing costs, consider India-specific value-adds like:

Tax optimization strategies within compliance boundaries
Benefits administration for India’s complex mandatory and supplementary benefits
Termination cost management including gratuity calculations and settlements

Legal compliance with India’s regulatory framework

India’s complex legal landscape requires specialized expertise. Evaluate:

Labor code implementation readiness: The EOR’s preparation for the four new labor codes
State-specific compliance capabilities: Different requirements exist across states
Industry-specific regulation experience: Especially important in highly regulated sectors
Dispute resolution history: Track record handling employment disputes in Indian jurisdiction

Regional coverage across Indian states

An effective India EOR should offer:

Coverage in key business centers: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Pune
Emerging technology hub presence: Jaipur, Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Indore
Rural and tier-2 city capabilities: Important for distributed workforce models
State-specific expertise: Understanding variations in compliance requirements

Hiring and onboarding tailored to Indian market

Effective EORs should demonstrate:

Cultural adaptation: Understanding Indian work culture and expectations
Local recruitment knowledge: Familiarity with India’s education system and credentials
Bilingual capabilities: Supporting both English and regional languages
Comprehensive background verification: Navigating India’s verification systems

Compliant termination management

India has employee-protective termination requirements that vary by:

Employment classification: Different rules for workmen vs. managers
State regulations: Varying notice periods and severance calculations
Company size: Different requirements based on employee count
Length of service: Gratuity and other benefits based on tenure

Technology integration with India-specific requirements

Evaluate the EOR’s technology for:

Aadhaar integration: India’s unique identification system
PF/ESI portal compatibility: For mandatory benefit contributions
GST compliance: For contractor arrangements
Digital signature capabilities: For legally binding documentation
Regional language support: For employees in different states

Benefits administration for Indian employees

A specialized India EOR should offer:

Mandatory benefits management: PF, gratuity, bonus, ESI
Supplementary benefits administration: Health insurance, meal allowances
Tax-optimized compensation structuring: Utilizing India’s tax-advantaged allowances
Festival bonuses and cultural considerations: Understanding India’s diverse holiday calendar

How EORs support India-specific HR functions

Regulatory reporting requirements in India

EORs manage complex reporting including:

Annual PF returns
ESI contributions and filings
Professional Tax remittance
Income Tax (TDS) deductions and Form 16
Labor Welfare Fund contributions
Shop and Establishment Act compliance

Risk management in India’s evolving regulatory environment

Specialized India EORs provide:

Labor code implementation tracking
State-level regulation monitoring
Audit preparation and documentation
Contract localization for India’s legal framework
Dispute mediation with cultural context

Employee benefits provision in Indian context

EORs handle India’s unique benefits landscape:

Statutory benefits: PF management, gratuity calculation, bonus provision
Health benefits: Medical insurance implementation with Indian providers
Leave management: Navigating India’s varied holiday calendar and leave requirements
Wellness programs: Adapted to Indian workplace expectations
Meal and transportation allowances: Tax-optimized within Indian regulations

Implementation timeline for India EOR services

Setting up EOR services in India typically follows this timeline:

Initial setup (1-2 days): Contract signing and requirement gathering
Employee documentation (2-3 days): Collection of Aadhaar, PAN, and other India-specific documentation
Compliance registration (1-2 days): PF and ESI enrollment
Payroll configuration (1 day): Setting up India-specific salary structures and allowances
Contract generation (1 day): Creating compliant employment agreements
Employee onboarding (1-2 days): Collecting signed documentation

Total timeline: 5-7 business days from agreement to operational employment