Cheapest Employer of Record Solutions to Scale Globally in 2025

The global Employer of Record (EOR) market is growing rapidly, with SMEs now making up nearly 70% of all EOR users. For many, it’s the smartest way to hire internationally without spending $20K–$100K on entity setup or risking compliance issues.

However, “cheap” should never equate to “low quality” in the context of global hiring. Cutting corners on compliance can lead to costly penalties, with non-compliance fines averaging over $10,000 per violation in some regions. 

Here’s how to identify the cheapest Employer of Record (EOR) providers that don’t compromise on compliance, payroll accuracy, or onboarding speed. 

What Makes an EOR Services Cost-effective? (Without Risking Compliance)

Choosing the cheapest Employer of Record shouldn’t mean sacrificing what matters. For SMEs, a truly cost-effective EOR still needs to deliver on three focal points, which is: 

• Total compliance with local statutes
• Seamless payroll processing
• Comprehensive benefits administration

Here’s what defines a cost-effective EOR in 2025 without compromising quality:

Pricing structures

Most EORs charge either a flat fee or a per-employee-per-month (PEPM) rate, typically ranging from $20 to $600 per employee. Flat fees suit businesses with predictable hiring needs, while PEPM models offer flexibility for scaling teams.

Hidden costs to avoid

Low headline prices often hide costly extras. Look out for setup fees ($500–$2,000), benefits markups (10–20% above actual costs), or high foreign exchange (FX) spreads on international payroll (up to 5%). These can quickly double your total monthly cost, especially for multi-country payroll..

Cost vs. Value 

Paying slightly more for better service often prevents bigger losses. For example, Tarmack offers fast onboarding (under 48 hours), global compliance coverage in 150+ countries, and transparent, flat employer of record cost,  helping you avoid fines, delays, or administrative overhead.

Red Flags in Cheap EORs

Bargain providers may cut corners, risking your business. For example, they may not invest in advanced data security measures, or compromise on compliance, leading to breaches, and accumulating millions in fines. 

Further, slow onboarding delays hiring, and a lack of local expertise can result in payroll or tax errors. Prioritize EORs with proven compliance and responsive support to avoid these pitfalls.

Top 10 Cheapest EOR Providers to Consider in 2025

Below, we’ve compared the most cost-effective Employer of Record (EOR) providers for 2025. Each provider is evaluated based on pricing transparency, service scope, compliance capabilities, and geographic coverage. 

Provider	Starting Price (per employee/month)	Countries Supported	Best For
Tarmack	$199	150+	Cost-conscious teams seeking fast, compliant global hiring
Multiplier	$400	100+	Businesses hiring in APAC and Middle East regions
Oyster	$499	130+	SMBs scaling internationally with moderate support needs
Remote.com	$599	90+	IP-heavy companies needing strong compliance safeguards
Deel	$599	100+	Startups prioritizing automation and platform experience
Rippling	$650–$800+ (custom pricing)	50+	U.S. companies with complex HR/IT integration needs
ADP	Custom pricing	100+	Large enterprises needing full-scale payroll + EOR compliance
BambooHR	Not primarily an EOR; partners via third party	Limited (via partners)	SMBs seeking HRIS + EOR through integrations
Gusto	Not a global EOR; U.S.-only EOR support	U.S. only (limited contractor support abroad)	U.S.-based startups needing basic payroll and HR tools
Workday	Custom enterprise pricing	100+ (via global partners)	Global enterprises needing integrated HCM and EOR services

#1 Tarmack

Tarmack undercuts major players like Deel and Remote.com with faster onboarding, no minimum commitment, and employer of record pricing that’s 60% lower. It is built for businesses, specifically SMEs and lean teams that want to go global without paying enterprise prices. 

• Pricing: $199 per employee/month, contractors from $39/month
• Setup Fees: None
• Key Geographies Supported: 150+ countries
• Minimum Commitment: None
• Onboarding Time: Typically a week, even in complex regions

Pros:

• Flat, predictable  pricing with no hidden fees
• Fast onboarding (under 48 hours) with automated compliance tools
• User-friendly platform with integrations for BambooHR and QuickBooks
• Strong focus on data security (GDPR, SOC 2 compliant)

Cons:

• Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise-focused providers
• Newer player, so less extensive client testimonials than established players
• May not suit companies needing deep integrations or multi-layered HR systems

#2 Deel

Deel is a leading EOR provider known for its extensive global reach and robust integrations. It supports both employees and contractors, with a focus on automation and compliance.

• Pricing: $499 per employee/month (annual billing); $599/month for monthly billing; contractors from $49/month.
• Setup Fees: None disclosed
• Key Geographies Supported: 100+ countries
• Onboarding Time: ~Few weeks to a few months

Pros:

• Comprehensive integrations (BambooHR, Workday, QuickBooks, Slack)
• 24/7 support with dedicated account managers for larger clients
• Strong compliance with local labor laws and IP protection
• Supports cryptocurrency payments and visa services

Cons:

• Higher EOR pricing compared to Tarmack or Remote.com (according to online sources).
• Some users report hidden fees or unexpected costs.
• Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise solutions like Papaya Global.

Check out our detailed guide on Deel Alternatives

#3 Remote.com

Remote offers a user-friendly EOR platform with an owned-entity model, ensuring direct compliance and payroll management. It’s favored for its transparency and contractor management, especially for hiring remote workers around the globe.

• Pricing: $599 per employee/month (annual billing); for contractors, it varies
• Setup Fees: None
• Key Geographies Supported: 80+ countries (via owned entities)
• Onboarding Time: 1-2 days

Pros:

• Transparent EOR pricing with no setup fees
• Strong compliance via owned entities, reducing third-party risks
• Integrates with Workday, Xero, and Zapier for seamless workflows
• Responsive customer support and intuitive interface

Cons:

• Higher starting price than Tarmack or Rippling
• Slower onboarding (3–5 days) compared to providers like Tarmack
• Limited analytics and slower onboarding (3–5 days) compared to competitors

#4 Oyster

Oyster HR focuses on remote-first companies, offering a user-friendly platform for global hiring and contractor management. It emphasizes compliance and employee experience.

• Pricing: $699 per employee/month; contractors from $29/month
• Key Geographies Supported: 130+ countries
• Setup Fees: None
• Onboarding Time: 48 hours

Pros:

• Strong compliance with IP protection and GDPR adherence
• Offers global payroll, benefits packages, and visa sponsorship
• Extensive contractor support at low cost ($29/month)
• Integrates with BambooHR, QuickBooks, and Slack

Cons:

• Higher employer of record costs for employee management compared to Tarmack
• Some users report slow customer support and payroll delays
• Additional fees for optional features can increase costs

#5 Multiplier

Multiplier offers a comprehensive EOR solution with rapid onboarding and bundled payroll/insurance services. It’s designed for businesses expanding quickly into multiple markets.

• Pricing: $400 per employee/month; contractors from $40/month
• Setup Fees: None publicly stated
• Key Geographies Supported: 150+ countries (via local entities)
• Onboarding Time: 24 hours

Pros:

• Bundled payroll and insurance reduce extra fees
• Local support for HR and compliance in key markets
• Integrates with Workday and BambooHR

Cons:

• The interface can feel clunky, with inconsistent tax information
• Business-hours-only support limits accessibility

#6 Rippling

Rippling combines EOR with HR, IT, and finance management, offering a unified platform for global and domestic teams. It’s ideal for businesses seeking an all-in-one solution.

• Pricing: Available on request
• Setup Fees: Typically none, but added modules may incur charges
• Key Geographies Supported: 50+ countries (via partners)
• Onboarding Time: Lightning-fast (some payroll processes in under 90 seconds)

Pros:

• 500+ integrations (BambooHR, Workday, QuickBooks)
• Highly automated platform with centralized payroll/IT management
• Extremely fast onboarding for HR and IT processes
• Robust compliance and analytics for scaling businesses

Cons:

• Higher pricing for EOR services compared to Tarmack
• Limited coverage in emerging markets
• Add-ons (like IT provisioning) can increase costs significantly

Check out our detailed guide on Rippling Alternatives

#7 Run by ADP^®

Run by ADP® is a global HR and payroll giant offering EOR services through partnerships. It’s suited for enterprises with complex needs but less focused on affordability.

• Pricing: Not publicly disclosed; estimated $79+ per employee/month
• Setup Fees: On request
• Key Geographies Supported: 140+ countries
• Onboarding Time: 10 to 15 minutes

Pros:

• Extensive compliance expertise for multinational corporations
• Integrates with Workday, SAP, and Oracle
• Robust analytics and enterprise-grade features
• Trusted by large corporations like Amazon and Pfizer

Cons:

• Opaque EOR pricing with potential hidden fees
• Slow implementation (6–12 months) compared to modern EORs
• Less intuitive interface for smaller businesses

#8 BambooHR

BambooHR is primarily an HRIS platform with limited EOR capabilities, best for small businesses needing basic global payroll and HR tools.

• Pricing: Not publicly disclosed; estimated $100+ per employee/month
• Setup Fees: Not publicly listed
• Key Geographies Supported: 150+ countries
• Onboarding Time: Four to six weeks

Pros:

• User-friendly interface for HR and payroll
• Integrates with Gusto, Workday, and ADP
• Strong applicant tracking and onboarding features
• Ideal for small businesses with domestic focus

Cons:

• Limited EOR functionality and geographic coverage
• EOR Pricing not transparent; requires custom quotes
• Not suited for complex global hiring needs

#9 Gusto

Gusto is a payroll and HR platform with EOR services powered by Remote, focusing on U.S. businesses and offers comparatively limited coverage for hiring international employees.

• Pricing: EOR from $599/employee/month
• Setup Fees: No setup fees
• Key Geographies Supported: 120 countries
• Onboarding Time: 2 business days

Pros:

• Affordable for U.S.-focused businesses
• Seamless payroll and benefits for domestic teams
• Integrates with Remote for EOR in select markets
• User-friendly with automated tax filings

Cons:

• Limited EOR coverage compared to Deel or Oyster
• High EOR pricing for international employees
• Relies on Remote for global services, adding complexity

Check out our detailed guide on Gusto Alternatives

#10 Workday

Workday is an enterprise-grade HCM platform with limited EOR capabilities, best for large organizations needing advanced analytics and HR tools.

• Pricing: Not publicly disclosed. Available on request
• Setup Fees: Not publicly listed
• Key Geographies Supported: 180 countries
• Onboarding Time: 1-2 weeks

Pros:

• Robust analytics and workforce planning tools
• Integrates with ADP, SAP, and Oracle
• Strong compliance for enterprise clients
• Scalable for large, complex organizations

Cons:

• High costs and opaque pricing
• Limited EOR functionality and geographic reach
• Complex interface not suited for smaller businesses

How to Choose the Right Budget EOR for Your Business

There are ten top EORs you can consider from the above. The market has plenty of more EOR options as well. 

Perusing each and every one of them and benchmarking their suitability to your business, both in terms of capability and cost-friendliness is going to be an uphill task. 

Consider these factors when it is time to choose the EOR for your business within the budget.

Onboarding speed

The onboarding speed provided by your EOR service provider can make or break expansion plans. If you need to hire within days, prioritize EORs like Tarmack which offers swift onboarding across 150+ countries. Slower providers like ADP (6–12 months) may derail tight timelines, costing opportunities.

International hiring and compliance

Countries like the US, Germany or Brazil have complex regulations, with non-compliance fines averaging $1,000 per violation. Choose EORs with owned entities or local expertise, to stay compliant across geographies. Tarmack’s 100+ country coverage and GDPR/SOC 2 compliance make it a strong contender here.

Customer support

Small teams may prefer self-serve platforms like Oyster or Tarmack for cost savings and simplicity. Larger firms needing dedicated support might opt for Deel’s 24/7 account managers, though at a higher cost. Assess your team’s capacity to manage HR tasks independently.

Payroll processing

Data breaches cost businesses $4.88 million on average, and payroll errors can lead to penalties or employee dissatisfaction. Prioritize EORs with robust security (e.g., Tarmack’s GDPR compliance) and accurate payroll systems. Avoid providers with reported delays, like Oyster, if precision is critical.

Cost-effectiveness

Spending $50–$100 more per employee/month on an EOR like Tarmack or Deel can prevent costly issues. Robust compliance, faster onboarding, and reliable support save time and money compared to cheap providers with hidden fees or weak security.

Why Choose Tarmack for Your EOR Needs

Tarmack stands out as the ideal EOR provider for businesses seeking affordability without compromising quality. With a starting price of just $199 per employee/month, Tarmack’s EOR delivers unmatched value through its tech-driven platform, ensuring seamless payroll, enabling employers to pay international employees effortlessly compliance, and hiring across 150+ countries. 

Unlike other platforms that bury costs in fine print or restrict customer service, Tarmack’s upfront pricing model, under 48-hour onboarding, and GDPR/SOC 2-compliant security make it the top choice for SMEs and startups aiming to scale globally while saving 25-40% on workforce costs.

Ready to hire globally without the high costs? Request a demo today!