TLDR: User-Friendly Solutions vs Global Reach
- Oyster HR: An easy-to-use global hiring solution that’s ideal for startups and small to medium-sized businesses. Start your Oyster HR journey now
- Velocity Global: Best choice for mid-sized and larger organizations needing extensive services and top-of-the-line support. Try out Velocity Global
Oyster HR and Velocity Global are two leading platforms in the global payroll and hiring space, offering distinct advantages as Employer of Record (EOR) providers. However, their strengths and limitations make them better suited to different types of businesses, depending on size, complexity, and specific needs.
Oyster HR is a robust global payroll and hiring platform that ranks among the best EOR providers I’ve used. Thanks to its ability to streamline global HR processes and provide essential legal resources, it is a top choice for companies looking to hire, pay, and manage international employees easily. However, Oyster HR’s pricing may be prohibitive for smaller operations, and its capabilities might not scale adequately for very large organizations.
On the other hand, Velocity Global offers a comprehensive global talent solution with an extensive reach of over 185 countries. Its proprietary technology platform and dedicated support make it an attractive option for mid-sized and larger organizations pursuing global expansion.
While Velocity Global provides a wide range of services, including talent acquisition and immigration support, its pricing can be opaque and potentially costly for businesses that don’t hire internationally at high volumes.
In this review, I’ll share insights on when Oyster HR and Velocity Global are the right choices for expanding or managing a global workforce. I’ll delve into their key features and potential drawbacks and suggest ideal use cases for each platform.
By comparing Oyster HR’s strengths and weaknesses with Velocity Global’s, I aim to help you determine which platform best meets your business needs, whether you’re managing a small startup or a large enterprise with complex global operations.
Oyster HR
Velocity Global
Overview of Oyster HR and Velocity Global
Oyster HR and Velocity Global are leading Employer of Record (EOR) providers that enable companies to hire and manage international employees without establishing local entities.
We’ve chosen to compare these two platforms due to their robust feature sets, global reach, and popularity among businesses expanding internationally. Let’s take a closer look at each platform:
Overview of Oyster HR
Oyster HR is a global employment platform that helps companies hire, pay, and manage remote employees across multiple countries. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools for international hiring, onboarding, payroll processing, and compliance management.
Oyster HR’s strengths lie in its user-friendly interface, professional onboarding process, and smooth payroll operations. It also offers a unique hiring refugee program, demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility.
Oyster HR has raised $59 million in its latest Series D funding round, led by Silver Lake Waterman, bringing its valuation to $1.2 billion and total funding to $286 million. The company plans to use this capital to enhance its product offerings, reinforce compliance standards, and help businesses attract skilled professionals. Known for supporting borderless teams through services like global payroll and visa sponsorships, Oyster’s mission is to make global employment opportunities accessible to all. Over 40% of its workforce is in emerging markets, and it facilitates employment in over 180 countries.
Company Information
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California
- Founders: Tony Jamous and Jack Mardack
- Funding: Raised $286 million in multiple funding rounds
- Founding Date: 2020
Also, read our in-depth analysis of Oyster HR
Overview of Velocity Global
Velocity Global is a leading global talent solutions provider that offers a wide range of services, including Employer of Record (EOR), contractor management, and global payroll solutions.
It caters to businesses across industries looking to hire supported employees, contractors, and freelancers globally in a compliant manner.
Velocity Global’s strengths include its extensive global reach, proprietary technology, and comprehensive offerings beyond basic EOR services.
Company Information
- Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States
- Founders: Ben Wright
- Funding: Over $400 million raised
- Founding Date: 2014
Both Oyster HR and Velocity Global offer robust solutions for global employment, but they differ in their approach, pricing transparency, and additional services offered. The following sections will explore how these platforms compare various aspects.
Key Features of Oyster HR
Oyster HR offers 8 key features that set it apart.
These key features include:
- 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.
Key Features of Velocity Global
Velocity Global offers 8 key features that set it apart.
These key features include:
- Global Employer of Record (EOR) Services: Enables companies to hire employees in 185+ countries without establishing local entities.
- Comprehensive HR Solutions: Offers end-to-end services including hiring, onboarding, payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance management.
- Proprietary Technology Platform: Provides a cloud-based solution for real-time data and analytics, streamlining global workforce management.
- Talent Acquisition Services: Assists businesses in finding and hiring top talent globally, managing the recruitment process from sourcing to selection.
- Global Payroll Solutions: Offers centralized payroll services for international workforces, handling different wage rules, deductions, and currencies.
- Benefits Management: Creates customized, competitive benefits packages designed to attract top talent in various markets.
- Contractor Management: Ensures proper classification and compliant payments for independent contractors and freelancers.
- Access to International Coworking Spaces: Partnered with providers to offer access to over 10,000 workspace locations worldwide.
Benefits of Using Oyster HR
The benefits of using Oyster HR are:
- Simplified Global Expansion: Enables quick entry into new markets without establishing local entities.
- Compliance Assurance: Minimizes legal risks with continuous monitoring of local regulations across all operational countries.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: Speeds up the international hiring process and eliminates the need for setting up legal entities in each country.
- Scalability: Supports rapid business growth and expansion into new markets with flexible hiring solutions.
- Centralized Management: Unifies global workforce management in one platform, improving oversight and efficiency.
- Risk Mitigation: Handles complex international labor laws and regulations, reducing compliance risks.
- Ethical Employment Practices: Focuses on promoting fair and ethical employment globally.
- Comprehensive Resources: Provides country-specific hiring guides and educational resources for navigating global employment.
Benefits of Using Velocity Global
The benefits of using Velocity Global are:
- Rapid Market Entry: Allows companies to enter new markets up to 90% faster than traditional methods of establishing local entities.
- Compliance Assurance: Handles complex international labor laws, tax filings, and regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduces the time and resources required for international hiring and HR management.
- Global Talent Access: Enables businesses to hire the best talent regardless of location, expanding their talent pool.
- Scalability: Facilitates rapid business growth and expansion into new markets with flexible hiring solutions.
- Risk Mitigation: Reduces legal and compliance risks associated with international employment.
- Centralized Management: Provides a single platform for managing global workforce, payroll, and compliance.
- Flexible Work Environments: Offers access to international coworking spaces, supporting distributed workforces.
- Comprehensive Support: Provides 24/7 customer service and access to local HR experts in various countries.
- Customized Solutions: Tailors services to meet specific business needs across different industries and company sizes.
Pricing and Plans
Oyster HR Pricing
Oyster HR offers a transparent pricing structure for its EOR services, with different options for full-time employees and contractors. Let’s break down the pricing and plans:
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Employer of Record (EOR) Pricing | $599 per employee/month |
| Contractor Management Pricing | $29 per employee/month |
| Payroll Pricing | $25 per employee/month |
| Annual Discount | Available |
While Oyster HR’s pricing is straightforward, it’s important to note that it may be on the higher end for smaller businesses or those just starting their international expansion. However, the comprehensive nature of their services can provide good value for companies hiring multiple employees across different countries.
Oyster HR doesn’t publicly disclose discounts for volume hiring or custom pricing options. However, it’s common in the industry for providers to offer more competitive rates for businesses hiring at scale. So, it may be worth inquiring about such options if you plan to hire many international employees.
It’s worth noting that while Oyster HR’s pricing is transparent, potential clients should inquire about any additional fees that might apply, such as setup costs or charges for additional services like immigration support or specialized benefits administration.
Velocity Global Pricing
Unlike Oyster HR, Velocity Global does not publicly disclose its pricing information. This lack of transparency can make it challenging for businesses to assess whether Velocity Global fits within their budget quickly. However, this approach is common in the industry, especially for highly customized solutions providers.
To get accurate pricing information, interested businesses must contact Velocity Global’s sales team for a quote. When doing so, it’s advisable to:
- Clearly outline your specific needs (number of employees, countries of operation, required services)
- Ask about any volume discounts or long-term contract benefits
- Inquire about additional fees for services like immigration support or specialized benefits administration
- Request a breakdown of costs for different services to understand what you’re paying for
While the lack of transparent pricing can be a drawback, it also indicates that Velocity Global tailors its offerings to each client’s specific needs. This can be advantageous for businesses with unique or complex requirements that may not fit neatly into a standardized pricing model.
For businesses considering Velocity Global, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate the comprehensive nature of their services against your specific needs and budget.
The added value of their extensive global network, proprietary technology, and additional services like talent acquisition may justify higher costs for some businesses, particularly those planning significant international expansion.
Pros and Cons of Oyster HR
Pros
- User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive platform that’s easy to navigate and use.
- Extensive Global Coverage: Operates in over 180 countries, providing broad international reach.
- Comprehensive Compliance Management: Strong focus on keeping businesses compliant with local regulations.
- Ethical Focus: Emphasizes ethical employment practices and social responsibility.
- Integrated Cost Calculator: Helps businesses estimate employment costs in different countries.
- Third-Party Integrations: Offers integrations with various HR and business tools.
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.
- Limited Analytics: Reporting and analytics capabilities may be less comprehensive than some competitors.
- Potential Overkill for Small Teams: The comprehensive nature of the platform may be more than necessary for very small businesses.
Pros and Cons of Velocity Global
Pros
- Extensive Global Coverage: Operates in 185+ countries, providing broad international reach.
- Comprehensive Services: Offers end-to-end global employment solutions beyond basic EOR services.
- Proprietary Technology: Provides a robust platform for managing global workforce operations.
- Flexible Solutions: Supports both employee and contractor management globally.
- Expertise in Compliance: Strong focus on navigating complex international regulatory environments.
Cons
- Pricing: Not having a transparent pricing might mean having some hidden fees.
- Reliance on Third-Party Partners: Uses external providers for some services in certain regions.
- Potential for Delays: The involvement of third-party partners could lead to slower processes in some cases.
User Data Security and Compliance
Both Oyster HR and Velocity Global place high importance on data security and compliance. However, they differ in the level of depth and services provided.
Velocity Global offers a robust compliance framework with SOC 2 and ISO 27001 certifications, ensuring strong data protection, particularly for enterprises operating in high-risk or regulated markets. Its platform provides multi-layered security and proactive monitoring to keep clients compliant with local labor laws across 185+ countries. With 24/7 incident response and in-country legal experts, Velocity Global reduces compliance risks and supports seamless international operations.
Oyster HR, on the other hand, is designed to meet the needs of remote-first organizations with a focus on user-friendliness and affordability. While Oyster offers GDPR compliance and end-to-end encryption, its strength lies in delivering localized benefits and easy integrations with existing HR tools. Oyster’s compliance solutions, while solid, are geared more towards distributed teams and SMEs, focusing on simplicity and employee well-being.
| Feature | Oyster HR | Velocity Global |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption Standards | End-to-end encryption for all sensitive data | Bank-level encryption with multi-layer security protocols |
| Certifications | GDPR compliant; no advanced certifications | SOC 2 and ISO 27001 certified for enterprise-grade security |
| Compliance Coverage | Automated updates on GDPR and local labor laws | Proactive legal compliance monitoring in 185+ countries |
| Data Storage | Cloud-based with regional data centers to ensure compliance | Localized data storage to meet region-specific regulations |
| Incident Response | Standard support and breach protocols | 24/7 monitoring with dedicated incident response teams |
| Third-Party Audits | Limited external audits; relies on internal reviews | Regular third-party audits for enhanced transparency and risk management |
| Customer Support for Security Issues | 24/7 chat support with compliance assistance | 24/7 legal and HR support with in-house compliance experts |
Oyster HR vs. Velocity Global At a Glance
A detailed summary of the comparison of Oyster HR and Velocity Global:
| Feature | Oyster HR | Velocity Global |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Scaling Companies Focused on Remote Team Success | Global workforce management solutions |
| EOR Pricing | $599 per employee/month | Custom |
| Contractor Pricing | $29 per employee/month | Custom |
| Country Coverage | 180+ | 185+ |
| Support Channels | Email, Phone, Live Chat | |
| Support Availability | Business Hours | 24/7 |
| G2 Rating | 4.4/5 (714 reviews) | 4.7/5 (199 reviews) |
| Capterra Rating | 4.5/5 (68 reviews) | No Reviews |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.6/5 (199 reviews) | No Reviews |
| Partnership Discount | N/A | N/A |
| Visit Website | Visit Website |
Recommendations
Choosing between Oyster HR and Velocity Global depends on your company’s needs, size, and hiring strategy. Oyster HR is ideal for SMEs and remote-first organizations prioritizing employee well-being, while Velocity Global offers a more comprehensive service for enterprises needing deep compliance coverage and risk management.
Who do I recommend Oyster HR to?
Oyster HR is best suited for remote-first companies and SMEs looking for affordable, flexible global employment solutions. It offers seamless integrations, localized benefits, and strong support for distributed teams. Its focus on employee experience and well-being makes it particularly appealing to organizations that prioritize remote work culture and minimal administrative burdens.
Here’s who can benefit from using Oyster HR:
- Remote-first startups – Need affordable payroll and benefits tools with global coverage.
- SMEs focused on employee well-being – Benefit from easy integration with HR tools and localized benefits.
- Companies with distributed teams – Require quick onboarding and remote workforce management.
Who do I recommend Velocity Global to?
Velocity Global is ideal for enterprises or corporations expanding into regulated or complex markets. With its full-service PEO offerings, extensive legal expertise, and proactive compliance monitoring, it is designed for companies needing thorough risk management and legal support. Organizations planning large-scale, multi-country expansions will find Velocity Global invaluable.
Here’s who can benefit from using from Velocity Global:
- Enterprises operating in multiple regions – Require strong compliance management and in-country legal expertise.
- Companies in highly regulated industries – Need proactive monitoring of labor and tax laws.
- Firms with complex employment needs – Benefit from end-to-end support, including payroll and benefits management.
When to Consider an Alternative Provider
Some businesses may find other providers more aligned with their specific needs, such as specialized tools, budget constraints, or advanced integration capabilities. Here’s a comparison of leading providers to guide your decision.
| Provider | Best For | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|
| Deel | Startups and freelancers | Crypto payment options and flexible contracts |
| Remote | Fast-growing tech companies | Equity management and strong contractor support |
| Multiplier | SMEs needing affordable solutions | Multi-currency payroll with compliance updates |
| Remofirst | Startups needing cost-effective hiring | Transparent pricing with fast onboarding |
| Rippling | Mid-sized companies with IT needs | Integrated HR, IT, and payroll tools |
| Papaya Global | Enterprises with complex payroll needs | AI-driven automation and advanced analytics |
| Gusto | U.S.-based small businesses | User-friendly payroll and benefits tools |
| Atlas HXM | Enterprises needing custom HR solutions | Deep integrations with advanced analytics |
Whether your business focuses on affordability and remote-first operations or requires comprehensive legal support and compliance management, carefully evaluating the strengths of each provider will help ensure a smooth global expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Oyster HR and Velocity Global compare in terms of global coverage?
Both offer extensive global coverage. Oyster HR supports hiring in over 180 countries, while Velocity Global covers more than 185 countries. The slight difference in coverage is unlikely to be a deciding factor for most businesses unless you need to hire in a very specific location.
Is Oyster HR or Velocity Global better for a small startup just beginning to hire internationally?
For a small startup, Oyster HR might be the better choice. Its transparent pricing and user-friendly interface make it easier for businesses new to international hiring. Velocity Global’s more comprehensive services might be more than a small startup needs initially.
Does either platform offer support for hiring contractors as well as full-time employees?
Yes, both Oyster HR and Velocity Global offer support for hiring both contractors and full-time employees. Oyster HR has a specific contractor management plan, while Velocity Global includes contractor management as part of its comprehensive services.