Global Employment Guides
24 mins read
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Published on:
Sep 26, 2025
Updated on:
Sep 29, 2025
![Rivermate | Our Top 10 Picks from All the Employer of Record (EOR) Companies in China [2025 Shortlist]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fspaces.rivermate.com%2Fmedia%2Fblog_images%2Femployer_of_record_vs_staffing_agency.png&w=3840&q=75)
Our Employer of Record (EOR) solution makes it easy to hire, pay, and manage global employees.
Book a demoExpanding into China's vast and complex labor market requires precision, local expertise, and airtight compliance. Employer of Record (EOR) providers simplify this journey by managing payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance, enabling businesses to hire and operate in China without setting up a local entity. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, China’s urban employment reached 467.73 million in 2023, highlighting the scale and complexity of employment compliance in the region. The following 2025 shortlist features ten top EOR companies—evaluated for pricing, compliance, coverage, technology, and customer experience—to help you make an informed selection.
| Parameter | Rivermate | AYP Group | Remote | Deel | Velocity Global (Pebl) | ChaadHR | Horizons | Oyster HR | Acclime China | Atlas (Elements) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing (EOR) | €299 per employee/month | $288-399/emp/mo | $599/emp/mo | $599/emp/mo | $399 (promo)/emp/mo | $299+/emp/mo | $299/emp/mo | $599/emp/mo | $799.90/emp/mo | Custom |
| Country Coverage | China + Global (180+) | China + APAC | China + 60+ | China + 100+ | China + 185+ | China + 88+ | China + 180+ | China + 180+ | China + APAC | China + Global |
| Entity Model | Own/Hybrid | Hybrid | Own | Own/Hybrid | Hybrid | Own/Partner | Own/Partner | Own/Partner | Own | Partner |
| Onboarding Speed | 5-7 days | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 5-7 days | 1 week | <7 days | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
| Compliance & Security | Human-led, strong | Zero-penalty | GDPR-compliant | SOC2, GDPR | Strong, enterprise | S+ local rating | Compliance-led | GDPR, local | Deep local exp. | Standard |
| Platform Experience | Modern, intuitive | Functional | Intuitive | Advanced | Tech-first | Automated | Intuitive | User-friendly | Portal-based | Platform-centric |
| Customer Support | 24/7, human-led, multi-channel | Local, advisory | Email/chat | Live chat/CSM | Dedicated manager | Multilingual | Dedicated | 24/7 chat | Local team | Standard |
| Integrations | HRIS, ATS, Payroll | Partial | HRIS, ATS | Extensive | HRIS, ATS, API | HRIS, Payroll | Payroll, HRIS | HRIS, API | HRIS, Payroll | API, Payroll |
| Benefits & Perks | Custom, local, intl. | Standard | Standard | Standard | Customizable | Customizable | Standard | Standard | Corporate-level | Standard |
| Scalability | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Mid-market | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise | SMB→Enterprise |
*Pricing is indicative and subject to change based on company size, service scope, and negotiation.
An Employer of Record (EOR) in China is a third-party organization that employs local staff on your behalf, handling payroll, tax, compliance, benefits, and HR administration. The EOR is the legal employer, ensuring foreign companies remain fully compliant with China's labor laws, social insurance, and tax regulations, while you retain day-to-day management and operational control over your workforce.... For companies new to the market, understanding the typical work week structure in China is crucial for compliance.
To deepen your understanding of building a compliant international recruitment strategy, review best practices specific to China.
Leveraging an EOR is especially vital given the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of the People's Republic of China regularly updates employment and social insurance requirements.
Rivermate is a global Employer of Record platform known for its robust compliance, personalized support, and ability to operate in high-risk and complex regions—including China. The platform allows companies to hire, onboard, and pay teams in China quickly, while ensuring full compliance with local labor laws, tax, and social security requirements. Rivermate's model emphasizes a human-led approach, combining local expertise with a modern, intuitive technology platform.
Rivermate stands out for its flexibility, transparency, and ability to support both SMBs and large enterprises. Its commitment to serving "exotic" and high-risk markets has made it a preferred choice for companies with specialized or sensitive needs, offering guidance through every step of the talent lifecycle in China. For more on how Rivermate is disrupting the EOR industry, see 10 ways Rivermate outperforms traditional EOR solutions in 2025.
Rivermate provides unmatched support for hiring in China, especially for companies seeking a partner that combines local expertise with global standards. The platform offers guaranteed compliance, quick onboarding, and the flexibility to cater to unique business models. Its strong presence in challenging markets and hands-on customer success teams ensure that clients avoid costly compliance errors and benefit from tailored HR solutions.
Rivermate's interface is modern and intuitive, offering a seamless dashboard focused on onboarding, contract generation, payroll, and benefits administration. Real-time updates and responsive navigation streamline all HR tasks, with workflows tailored specifically for compliance in China. For organizations with remote or distributed teams, building a strong remote work culture can further boost retention and engagement.
Rivermate is noted for 24/7, human-led customer support. Clients receive a dedicated account manager and can reach support via their preferred channel, ensuring fast, knowledgeable responses to urgent compliance or payroll queries.
Rivermate's China EOR pricing typically starts at €299 per employee/month, with payroll-only options available at a lower rate. There are no setup or hidden fees, and pricing is transparent regardless of company size or region.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Human-led, personalized support | Not the lowest base price in the market |
| Fast onboarding in high-risk regions | Customizations may require onboarding consultation |
| Transparent, all-inclusive pricing | Not all integrations are plug-and-play |
| Deep compliance and risk expertise | Focus on compliance may add process steps |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.7/5 | ~100+ users |
| Trustpilot | 4.7/5 | ~50+ users |
| Capterra | 4.5/5 | ~30+ users |
AYP Group is a regional HR and EOR specialist with deep expertise in China and Southeast Asia. It offers a localized approach to compliance, payroll, and benefits, with a zero-penalty track record for labor law adherence. AYP is known for its advisory-driven model and transparent pricing, making it a safe choice for companies expanding in APAC.
AYP Group is ideal for businesses prioritizing risk mitigation and local compliance. Their local teams have deep understanding of Chinese labor, social insurance, and tax nuances, ensuring clients avoid regulatory pitfalls. For the most up-to-date minimum wage standards in China, review the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security's official announcements.
Functional, compliance-oriented dashboard with robust reporting and local HR workflows.
Local advisory teams, available during business hours, with escalation paths for urgent compliance matters.
Starts at $288–$399 per employee/month. No setup fees. Transparent billing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Zero-penalty compliance record | Higher price than base EORs |
| Local HR and legal experts | Focused on APAC, less global reach |
| Transparent, fixed pricing | Fewer integrations than tech players |
| Strong advisory and consulting | May be complex for simple needs |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.5/5 | ~40+ users |
| Capterra | 4.4/5 | ~15+ users |
Remote is a global-first EOR platform designed for digital-native and technology companies. With a fully-owned entity model, it offers unified compliance, payroll, and benefits in over 60 countries, including China. Remote's platform is recognized for its intuitive UI, global scalability, and transparent pricing.
Remote's model is best for tech-driven teams needing a unified platform for global hiring, with a strong emphasis on compliance and user experience.
Modern, intuitive dashboard with real-time updates and e-signature workflows. Streamlined for both HR managers and employees.
Available via email and in-platform chat; dedicated success managers for larger clients.
$599 per employee/month for EOR; $29 for contractor management. No setup fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Owns entities, strong compliance | Premium-priced |
| User-friendly platform | Some payment methods limited |
| Transparent, all-inclusive pricing | No hourly pay option |
| 80+ country coverage | Onboarding can take 1–2 weeks |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.6/5 | 3,800+ users |
| Trustpilot | 4.6/5 | 400+ users |
Deel is a global EOR and contractor management platform, distinguished by rapid onboarding, broad integration capabilities, and a developer-friendly API. In China, Deel manages everything from contracts and payroll to social security with a heavy focus on user experience.
Deel is best for companies wanting quick, digital-first onboarding and comprehensive support for both employees and contractors. When comparing EOR vs contractor models, Deel provides flexibility for businesses managing mixed workforces.
Highly intuitive interface, visually rich dashboards, and streamlined navigation for HR, payroll, and compliance tasks.
24/7 live chat, dedicated customer success managers for larger accounts.
Typically $599 per employee/month. Transparent pricing; no hidden fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rapid, digital onboarding | Premium pricing |
| Integrations and API options | Advanced features may cost extra |
| Multi-currency payroll | Can be complex for basic needs |
| Excellent customer support | Limited customization for heavy-reg |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.8/5 | 8,800+ users |
| Trustpilot | 4.8/5 | 2,400+ users |
Velocity Global (now Pebl) offers a tech-centric EOR platform with global reach, supporting China through hybrid models and strong compliance. The platform is known for AI-driven features, instant cost visibility, and comprehensive visa support.
Pebl is ideal for enterprises needing deep global coverage, scalable solutions, and advanced technology.
For the latest on visa and immigration management for foreign employees, consult the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.
Tech-first, with advanced reporting and customizable workflows.
Dedicated account managers; response typically within hours.
$399 per employee/month (promotional rate, subject to change); custom quotes for large clients.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Advanced technology platform | Reliance on third-party providers |
| Fast, upfront pricing | Lower Trustpilot rating |
| Global coverage | Custom pricing can lack transparency |
| Visa/immigration expertise | 30-day offboarding notice required |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.6/5 | 250+ users |
| Trustpilot | 3.2/5 | 50+ users |
ChaadHR is a locally recognized EOR provider in China, holding an S+ market ranking for its compliance, technology, and customer-centric approach. The company is known for its deep local presence, flexible service models, and automation-driven platform.
ChaadHR suits businesses needing local expertise, transparent pricing, and extensible HR technology.
Automation-rich, with easy navigation and customizable reporting.
Multilingual support, dedicated managers, and rapid response escalation.
$299+ per employee/month; no setup or cancellation fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Transparent, no-setup-fee pricing | Feature setup may take time |
| Multilingual, local support | Premium support at higher tiers |
| S+ compliance ranking | Coverage in emerging markets limited |
| Flexible integrations | Complex integrations may require help |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.4/5 | ~60+ users |
Horizons is a global EOR provider with a strong track record in China, offering both EOR and contractor management. Horizons specializes in rapid onboarding, global mobility, and visa support for diverse workforce types. This makes them particularly attractive for startups and growing companies that need flexible hiring solutions.
Horizons is ideal for firms managing a mix of employees and contractors, with a need for global mobility support.
Simple, intuitive dashboard with clear contractor/employee workflows.
Dedicated local teams, global support available during business hours.
$299 per employee/month; $49/contractor/month.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| EOR and contractor services | No payroll-only solution |
| Wide country coverage | Limited analytics/reporting |
| In-house talent acquisition | May be overkill for small businesses |
| Comprehensive visa support | HRIS features less advanced |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.5/5 | ~100+ |
| Glassdoor | 4/5 | ~30+ |
Oyster HR is a global EOR platform with a strong ethical focus, intuitive interface, and transparent cost calculator. It is well-suited for distributed and remote-first teams looking for simplicity and scalability.
Oyster HR is best for distributed teams seeking an ethical, transparent, and user-friendly platform.
Highly intuitive, easy to use, streamlined for distributed operations.
24/7 chat support and dedicated onboarding specialists.
$599 per employee/month; no setup fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| User-friendly interface | Premium pricing |
| Transparent cost planning | Feature limitations at base tier |
| Strong compliance framework | Limited reporting/analytics |
| Wide global reach | Can be too feature-rich for tiny teams |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.4/5 | ~400+ users |
Acclime China offers premium, full-spectrum corporate services, including EOR, company incorporation, accounting, and regulatory compliance. With a deep local team and government relationships, Acclime is ideal for complex or heavily regulated market entrants.
Acclime is best for multinational firms or those with complex corporate needs beyond simple hiring.
For details on company registration and WFOE setup, visit the State Administration for Market Regulation.
Portal-based, focused on compliance and document management.
Local experts, in-person and remote support during China work hours.
$799.90 per employee/month; premium, custom packages available.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deepest local expertise | Highest pricing in segment |
| Corporate-level service suite | Focused on Greater China/APAC |
| Tech-enabled management portal | Overkill for simple hiring needs |
| Strong government relationships | Complex onboarding for simple EOR |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.2/5 | ~25+ users |
Atlas is a global EOR provider using a partner-based model for China, with strong digital HR solutions and a focus on scaling efficiency.
Atlas is suitable for organizations focused on scaling, technology integration, and digital HR management.
Digital, platform-first, with dashboards for all HR and compliance tasks.
Standard global support, with escalation for local compliance queries.
Custom, based on scope and scale.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Digital platform, easy scaling | Partner-based entity in China |
| Integrated compliance | Pricing not transparent |
| Global reach | Less local customization |
| Efficient for large teams | Less suitable for small, local teams |
| Platform | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.3/5 | ~80+ users |
Choosing the right EOR in China requires a balance of compliance, technology, support, and cost. When evaluating whether to use an EOR versus a staffing agency, consider that EORs handle long-term employment relationships while staffing agencies focus on recruitment. Methodology should include:
For a closer look at compliance in the Chinese market, the China Labour Bulletin provides English-language summaries and legal analysis of employment contracts and labor law enforcement.
Tips:
China's labor and compliance environment is among the world's most complex. Key factors:
According to the OECD’s China labor market statistics, the formal employment rate in urban areas has seen steady year-over-year growth, emphasizing the need for up-to-date payroll compliance systems.
When making your selection, remember that the decision between different employment models requires careful consideration. Understanding how to hire international employees effectively can help you make informed choices about EOR partnerships versus other hiring approaches.
Rivermate blends the best of local compliance expertise, global HR technology, and true human-led support. It is uniquely positioned to serve clients in even the most complex or high-risk Chinese regions, offering tailored onboarding, personalized success managers, and transparent pricing. With Rivermate, you avoid common pitfalls—hidden fees, slow onboarding, and compliance gaps—while enjoying flexible, multi-channel customer support and the confidence of a partner that understands both local nuances and global best practices. Talk to an expert today
1. What is an Employer of Record (EOR) in China?
An EOR is a third-party organization that legally employs staff on your behalf in China. They handle payroll, tax, compliance, social insurance, benefits, labor contracts, and HR administration, allowing your company to operate without establishing a local entity.
2. Why should I use an EOR instead of setting up a local company in China?
Using an EOR allows rapid market entry, guaranteed compliance with complex labor laws, and reduced legal and payroll risks. Setting up a local entity is time-consuming, costly, and requires ongoing regulatory management.
3. How long does it take to onboard employees in China via an EOR?
Onboarding times vary by provider but typically range from 5–14 days. Providers like Rivermate emphasize rapid onboarding with personalized support to minimize delays.
4. Does an EOR handle social insurance, housing funds, and taxes in China?
Yes. A reputable EOR ensures full compliance with China’s mandatory social insurance contributions, housing fund requirements, and monthly Individual Income Tax (IIT) filings.
5. Can an EOR help with work visas and permits for expatriates?
Yes. Many EORs, including Rivermate, offer end-to-end support for work visas and permits, ensuring foreign employees are fully compliant with Chinese immigration regulations.
6. Are there hidden fees with EOR services in China?
Transparent EORs like Rivermate provide all-inclusive pricing with no hidden setup or payroll fees. Always confirm pricing details with the provider before signing a contract.
7. Can an EOR manage both full-time employees and contractors?
Yes. Some providers, such as Deel and Horizons, offer solutions for mixed workforces, managing both employees and contractors while maintaining compliance.
8. Is EOR service suitable for small businesses and startups?
Absolutely. EOR services scale to meet the needs of SMBs, startups, and large enterprises, providing compliance, payroll, HR support, and local expertise without requiring a local legal entity.
9. How do I choose the best EOR in China?
Evaluate providers based on:
10. Will an EOR in China provide local labor law guidance?
Yes. Top EORs provide guidance on contracts, termination policies, working hours, statutory holidays, and regional employment regulations, ensuring your operations remain compliant.
Founder & Managing Director
Lucas Botzen is the founder of Rivermate, a global HR platform specializing in international payroll, compliance, and benefits management for remote companies. He previously co-founded and successfully exited Boloo, scaling it to over €2 million in annual revenue. Lucas is passionate about technology, automation, and remote work, advocating for innovative digital solutions that streamline global employment.
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