Best Employer of record in Malaysia: Top 9 EORs of 2025

We've analyzed 9 top employment providers to help you choose the best solution for your global hiring needs.

Reviewed by Robbin Schuchmann

Best Employer of record in Malaysia: Top 9 EORs of 2025 shortlist

I've shortlisted the top 9 EOR providers after my detailed review:

  1. Multiplier — Companies Looking for Same-Day Global Hiring & Payments 15% Off
  2. RemoFirst — Cost-conscious and tight budgets 1 Month Free
  3. Rippling — Tech-forward companies with 50-1000 employees needing integrated HR and IT management 2 months free
  4. Deel — Fast-growing companies needing global hiring at scale 20% Off
  5. Remote — Companies prioritizing risk-free international hiring 20% Off
  6. Hire with Columbus — Cost-conscious companies with 5-50 employees seeking the absolute lowest EOR pricing available
  7. Glints TalentHub — Companies prioritizing SEA-specific expertise and hands-on support
  8. Oyster HR — Scaling companies focused on remote team success
  9. Papaya Global — Organizations requiring enterprise-grade payroll solutions

Planning to hire talent in Malaysia? You’re facing several key opportunities and challenges:

  • Low unemployment rate (3.3%, near pre-pandemic levels)
  • Strong GDP growth projection (5% in 2024)
  • New Employment Act coverage for all wage levels
  • Mandatory flexible work arrangement response within 60 days
  • New protections for gig workers
  • Private sector growth of 1.3% year-on-year
  • Minimum wage requirements (RM1,500 for 5+ employees)

Based on our analysis of Malaysia’s employment market, Multiplier stands out as the leading EOR solution, offering comprehensive compliance management and expertise in navigating Malaysia’s evolving employment landscape.

This guide provides:

  • Detailed comparison of 8 top EOR providers in Malaysia
  • Malaysia-specific compliance requirements
  • Cost analysis and pricing comparisons
  • Implementation timelines
  • Local market insights
  • Step-by-step hiring process

Best Employers of Record in Malaysia 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
2
RemoFirst 1 Month Free
4.5
$199/mo
3
Rippling 2 months free
4.8
$499/mo
4
Deel 20% Off
4.8
$599/mo
5
Remote 20% Off
4.6
$599/mo
6
Hire with Columbus
- $179/mo
7
Glints TalentHub
4.5
$299/mo
8
Oyster HR
4.3
$599/mo
9
Papaya Global
4.5
$599/mo
Provider
Multiplier 15% Off
$400/mo
RemoFirst 1 Month Free
$199/mo
Rippling 2 months free
$499/mo
Deel 20% Off
$599/mo
Remote 20% Off
$599/mo
Hire with Columbus
$179/mo
Glints TalentHub
$299/mo
Oyster HR
$599/mo
Papaya Global
$599/mo

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.

#1

Multiplier

15% Off

Companies Looking for Same-Day Global Hiring & Payments

4.8 (3,908 reviews)

What is Multiplier?

Multiplier website screenshot

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

#2

RemoFirst

1 Month Free

Cost-conscious and tight budgets

4.6 (248 reviews)

What is RemoFirst?

RemoFirst website screenshot

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

#3

Rippling

2 months free

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

4.8 (15,454 reviews)

What is Rippling?

Rippling website screenshot

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

#4

Deel

20% Off

Fast-growing companies needing global hiring at scale

4.8 (20,874 reviews)

What is Deel?

Deel website screenshot

Deel is a global payroll and compliance platform that enables companies to hire, pay, and manage contractors and full-time employees worldwide without needing to establish local entities. Founded in 2019 by Alex Bouaziz and Shuo Wang, the company has grown rapidly, raising over $629 million in funding and reaching a valuation of $12 billion.

The platform specializes in removing international hiring barriers through Employer of Record (EOR) services, contractor management, and global payroll solutions. When I tested Deel, I found the onboarding process remarkably straightforward for such a complex legal area, making it particularly suitable for tech companies and startups looking to build distributed teams quickly.

Deel has positioned itself as a category leader by focusing on user experience while handling the complex behind-the-scenes legal compliance work. The company now serves over 15,000 customers ranging from startups to enterprises like Dropbox, Shopify, and Reddit.

Key features of Deel

  • Global payroll processing: Deel handles salary calculations and payments in 120+ currencies across 150+ countries, supporting various withdrawal methods including direct bank transfers, Revolut, Wise, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency. I found the payment dashboard particularly clear, showing exactly what each employee receives after local tax deductions – something many competitors make much harder to understand.
  • Employer of Record services: Deel's EOR service lets businesses hire full-time employees without establishing local entities in each country. The platform handles employment contracts, onboarding, local tax registrations, and mandatory benefits in each location. During testing, I was able to onboard a new hire in Germany in just under 48 hours without any prior entity setup – significantly faster than the weeks required through traditional legal channels.
  • Contractor management system: Beyond full-time employment, Deel offers comprehensive contractor management with localized agreements, payment processing, and tax documentation. The platform automatically generates tax forms like 1099s for US contractors and equivalent documents for international freelancers, significantly reducing compliance risks associated with misclassification.
  • Compliance automation: Deel continuously monitors changing regulations in all operating countries, automatically updating contract templates and employment practices to maintain compliance. The system flags potential issues and provides guidance on resolving them, giving businesses confidence in their global employment practices without needing specialized legal expertise in each country.
  • Benefits administration: The platform offers locally-relevant benefits packages in most countries, including health insurance, retirement plans, and stipends. HR teams can customize benefit offerings through an intuitive dashboard while ensuring all mandatory benefits are included according to local laws. This creates a consistent experience for employees regardless of location.

Pros

  • Global employment infrastructure

    Deel maintains local entities in 150+ countries, letting businesses hire employees without establishing their own legal presence in each location.

  • Multi-currency payment flexibility

    Deel processes payroll in 120+ currencies with competitive exchange rates, making it cheaper than bank transfers for international team payments.

  • Automated compliance management

    Deel automatically generates country-specific contracts and tax forms, reducing legal risks when hiring across different jurisdictions.

  • Employee benefits platform

    Deel offers health insurance, equipment stipends, and other perks that help companies attract international talent with competitive packages.

  • 24/7 customer support

    Deel provides round-the-clock assistance through multiple channels, ensuring help is available regardless of your team's time zones.

  • Contractor and EOR unification

    Deel combines both contractor management and employer of record services in one platform, unlike competitors that often separate these functions.

  • User-friendly onboarding

    Deel simplifies the complex process of international hiring with guided workflows and templated contracts for various employment scenarios.

Cons

  • Higher price point

    Deel's contractor management starts at $49 monthly and EOR services at $599 per employee, making it pricier than budget-focused alternatives like RemoFirst.

  • Occasional support delays

    During peak periods, response times can stretch beyond the advertised window, which might affect time-sensitive hiring processes.

  • Limited regional specialization

    Unlike some competitors with deep expertise in specific regions, Deel offers broad global coverage but may lack the same depth in certain countries.

  • Advanced analytics limitations

    Deel's reporting capabilities lack some of the sophisticated workforce analytics found in enterprise-level alternatives like Papaya Global.

Deel pricing

Service type Pricing
EOR Pricing 599
Contractor management 49
Global payroll 29

Platform reviews

Platform Rating Reviews
G2 4.8 9,937 reviews
Capterra 4.8 3,381 reviews
Trustpilot 4.7 7,556 reviews

Customer support

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

Best for

Fast-growing companies needing global hiring at scale

#5

Remote

20% Off

Companies prioritizing risk-free international hiring

4.7 (6,598 reviews)

What is Remote?

Remote website screenshot

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

#6

Hire with Columbus

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

5.0

What is Hire with Columbus?

Hire with Columbus website screenshot

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

#7

Glints TalentHub

Companies prioritizing SEA-specific expertise and hands-on support

4.8 (1 reviews)

What is Glints TalentHub?

Glints TalentHub website screenshot

Glints TalentHub is an HR solution platform that enables companies to recruit, hire, and manage employees across Southeast Asia without establishing local entities. Founded as part of Glints’ evolution from a recruitment platform, TalentHub has become the region’s leading specialist for businesses expanding into SEA markets.

The platform specializes in removing barriers to Southeast Asian expansion through integrated Employer of Record (EOR) services, Professional Employer Organization (PEO) solutions, and recruitment capabilities. When I tested Glints TalentHub, I found the combination of local HR expertise with technology remarkably effective for navigating Southeast Asia’s complex and diverse employment landscape.

What sets Glints apart from global EOR providers is its singular focus on Southeast Asia. While competitors offer broad international coverage with limited regional depth, Glints maintains dedicated local teams who understand the nuanced differences between hiring in Indonesia versus Vietnam, or managing employees in the Philippines versus Thailand. This regional specialization translates to faster problem resolution and better employee experiences.

Glints now serves companies ranging from startups to established enterprises looking to tap into Southeast Asia’s 10 million+ talent pool, with particular strength in technology, e-commerce, and digital services sectors.

Key features of Glints TalentHub

  • Regional payroll processing Glints handles salary calculations and payments across all seven Southeast Asian markets, managing local currency requirements, tax withholdings, and payment schedules according to each country's regulations. I found the payroll dashboard particularly clear for managing teams across multiple SEA countries, with built-in compliance checks that flag potential issues before they become problems.
  • Employer of Record services Glints' EOR service lets businesses hire full-time employees in Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan without establishing local entities. The platform handles employment contracts, onboarding, local tax registrations, and mandatory benefits specific to each country. During testing, I was impressed by how quickly Glints' local HR teams resolved country-specific questions that would have taken days of research to answer independently.
  • Integrated recruitment engine Unlike pure EOR providers, Glints TalentHub combines hiring services with employment management. The platform provides access to Southeast Asia's largest talent network with local recruiters who understand regional hiring practices, resulting in 2x faster recruitment compared to traditional methods. This integration eliminates the need to work with separate recruitment agencies and EOR providers.
  • Localized compliance management Glints continuously monitors changing regulations across all Southeast Asian markets, automatically updating contracts and employment practices to maintain compliance. The service-led approach means dedicated local HR professionals proactively address compliance concerns rather than relying solely on automated systems, providing an extra layer of protection for complex regional requirements.
  • Employee engagement and retention The platform includes built-in localization and engagement strategies tailored to Southeast Asian workplace cultures. Glints' local teams facilitate onboarding, cultural integration, and ongoing employee support, contributing to 3x better retention rates compared to companies managing SEA employees without regional expertise.

Pros

  • Southeast Asia specialization

    Glints maintains local entities and dedicated HR teams across Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan, providing unmatched regional depth that global providers cannot match.

  • Integrated recruitment and EOR

    Glints combines talent sourcing with employer of record services, offering access to 10 million+ Southeast Asian professionals while handling all compliance and payroll in one solution.

  • Service-led approach

    Unlike platform-only competitors, Glints provides dedicated local HR professionals who understand regional nuances in employment regulations, cultural norms, and HR practices for faster issue resolution.

  • Cost-effective pricing

    Starting at $299 monthly for EOR services, Glints offers significantly lower costs than global providers while delivering superior regional expertise and hands-on support.

  • 70% cost savings on talent

    Companies hiring through Glints access Southeast Asian talent at substantially lower costs compared to Western markets, with recruitment processes 2x faster than traditional methods.

Cons

  • Limited geographic coverage

    Glints focuses exclusively on seven Southeast Asian markets, making it unsuitable for companies needing truly global coverage across multiple continents.

  • Recruitment fee structure

    The TalentHub solution charges an 18% recruitment success fee on top of EOR costs, which can increase total first-year expenses compared to EOR-only providers.

  • Newer market presence

    Compared to established global players with decades of history, Glints has less brand recognition outside Southeast Asia, though this doesn't impact service quality.

Glints TalentHub pricing

Service type Pricing
EOR Pricing 299
Global payroll 100

Platform reviews

Platform Rating Reviews
G2 4.5 1 reviews

Customer support

Support Feature Details
Support Channels Email
Support Availability 24/7

Best for

Companies prioritizing SEA-specific expertise and hands-on support

#8

Oyster HR

Scaling companies focused on remote team success

4.6 (1,525 reviews)

What is Oyster HR?

Oyster HR website screenshot

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

#9

Papaya Global

Organizations requiring enterprise-grade payroll solutions

4.2 (107 reviews)

What is Papaya Global?

Papaya Global website screenshot

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

Complete provider comparison

Key metrics Multiplier RemoFirst Rippling Deel Remote Hire with Columbus Glints TalentHub Oyster HR Papaya Global
EOR Pricing
$400 /month
$199 /month
$499 /month
$599 /month
$599 /month
$179 /month
$299 /month
$599 /month
$599 /month
Contractor pricing
$40 /month
$25 /month
$35 /month
$49 /month
$29 /month
$22.50 /month
Contact sales
$29 /month
$30 /month
Payroll pricing
$35 /month
$29 /month
$29 /month
$100 /month
$25 /month
G2 rating
4.7 ★★★★★
4.5 ★★★★★
4.8 ★★★★★
4.8 ★★★★★
4.6 ★★★★★
No rating
4.5 ★★★★★
4.3 ★★★★★
4.5 ★★★★★
Country coverage
150+ countries
185+ countries
185+ countries
150+ countries
186+ countries
185+ countries
7+ countries
180+ countries
160+ countries
Support channels
Email, Phone, Live Chat Email, Live Chat Email, Phone, Live Chat Email, Phone, Live Chat Email, Live Chat Email, Live Chat Email Email, Live Chat Email, Live Chat
Support availability
Business Hours 24/7 Business Hours 24/7 24/7 24/7 24/7 Business Hours 24/7
Annual discount
✓ Available ✓ 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 Visit Website

Why hire employees in Malaysia?

Malaysia offers compelling advantages for international companies:

  • Strong economic growth (5% projected for 2024)
  • Strategic location in ASEAN
  • Growing semiconductor industry
  • Strong consumer demand
  • Robust private sector (75.2% of employment)
  • Developing technology sector
  • Expanding renewable energy industry
  • Comprehensive employment protections

Understanding Malaysia’s employment landscape

Current market trends

  • 2% year-on-year employee growth
  • Private sector expansion
  • Growing tech adoption
  • Focus on skills-based hiring
  • Strong diversity initiatives
  • Expanding gig economy
  • Robust expatriate hiring framework

Employment regulations

  • Universal Employment Act coverage
  • Mandatory flexible work arrangement consideration
  • Enhanced gig worker protections
  • Sexual harassment awareness requirements
  • Minimum wage regulations
  • Strict holiday and leave entitlements

What are the benefits of using an EOR in Malaysia?

Benefits of using an EOR in Malaysia are:

  1. Compliance management
  • Handles updated Employment Act requirements
  • Manages flexible work arrangement requests
  • Ensures proper worker classification
  • Maintains sexual harassment compliance
  • Manages minimum wage requirements
  1. Risk mitigation
  • Navigates complex labor laws
  • Handles expatriate hiring requirements
  • Ensures proper documentation
  • Manages termination procedures
  1. Cost efficiency
  • Eliminates entity setup costs
  • Reduces administrative overhead
  • Manages benefits efficiently
  • Provides economies of scale
  1. Market access
  • Enables quick entry
  • Supports business scaling
  • Provides local expertise
  • Facilitates workforce management

Market trends and insights

Key trends affecting EOR services in Malaysia:

  • Low unemployment rates
  • Strong economic growth
  • Expanding tech sector
  • Growing gig economy
  • Enhanced worker protections
  • Flexible work adoption
  • International hiring requirements