Industry Insights and Trends
14 mins read
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Published on:
Apr 7, 2025
Updated on:
Apr 9, 2025
Our Employer of Record (EOR) solution makes it easy to hire, pay, and manage global employees.
Talk to an expertNot every global hiring platform is created equal. The best alternatives to Deel make hiring talent globally easier and less stressful.
Some platforms speed up onboarding. Others focus on following local laws and help with easy offboarding when contracts end. Some stand out by providing real help from actual people in tough situations. Others do this without overspending.
Choosing the right option depends on your team’s workflow and future goals. The right platform that simplifies global hiring can make all the difference. Let’s explore the alternatives that truly deserve your attention.
These ten Deel alternatives each offer unique advantages. One of them could be the perfect fit you didn’t know you were looking for.
Rivermate is an employer of record platform. It helps companies hire employees and contractors in other countries legally. This means you don't need to open a local office or set up a business in each country. Rivermate takes care of important steps in international hiring. This includes onboarding, payroll, benefits, and following local labour laws.
Rivermate stands out for its speed. Most employees can be onboarded in just two business days. This is much quicker than many other platforms. If you have a problem or question, their support team usually replies within a few hours. This fast response is crucial when dealing with time zones or urgent paperwork.
The platform also connects with your existing payroll and HR tools. This means your team can manage time off, expenses, contracts, and employee data in one place. You won't need to juggle different systems.
Rivermate uses flat-fee pricing with no hidden costs, so you always know what to expect. It is a great option for companies that want to expand globally in a simple, efficient, and compliant way.
Remote is an employer of record platform. It helps companies hire and manage employees and contractors in more than 180 countries. It offers global payroll, onboarding, benefits administration, and full compliance services.
One standout feature is that Remote owns its local entities. This gives companies more control and legal stability, making it a solid option for long-term hiring plans in specific countries.
It also offers local legal support to ensure compliance with local laws and protect intellectual property. While support may not be the fastest, Remote has one of the most developed infrastructures in the global HR space.
For businesses that prioritize structure, legal clarity, and international reach, Remote is a dependable and well-known alternative to Deel.
Oyster is an employer of record platform. It helps companies hire employees and contractors in over 180 countries. The platform provides global payroll, onboarding, benefits management, and compliance support through an easy-to-use interface.
Oyster makes international hiring easier, especially for teams that want a self-serve model. It suits companies with some HR experience or those hiring in countries with simpler legal rules.
Oyster has fixed pricing per employee and lower rates for contractor management. It includes useful templates and resources for smoother onboarding.
For businesses seeking a flexible and efficient way to manage a global team, Oyster is a smart choice compared to Deel.
Remofirst is an affordable employer of record platform. Pricing starts at $199 per employee and $25 for contractors. This makes it a budget-friendly option for hiring internationally.
It operates in over 150 countries and offers key EOR features like contract generation, payroll, and basic compliance support. It's great for small teams or startups starting to build a global presence without needing to set up entities.
The platform manages payroll processes effectively, but customization is limited. Support may also be slower than with more advanced options. If keeping costs low is your goal, Remofirst is a practical choice, though it might feel restrictive as your needs expand.
Multiplier is an employer of record platform. It helps companies hire in over 150 countries. It offers automated payroll, local benefits, and tools for managing stock options. This makes it great for startups and tech companies that are growing fast.
Pricing starts at about 400 dollars per employee. This service caters to teams managing equity and compensation across borders. It also supports international payroll and benefits. This helps companies that expand into different regions.
That said, some users find the platform less flexible when it comes to customization. Support may also be slower for teams that need quick answers during hiring.
Multiplier works well for equity tools and automated processes. However, if your team values speed or personal support, a simpler platform might be a better choice.
Rippling combines HR, IT, and finance tools in one system. It provides employer of record services, payroll, device management, and workflow automation. This makes it a helpful platform for managing your workforce and improving operations.
Rippling adds value for businesses using its tools. However, EOR support is available in just 90 countries, and onboarding may take longer. For some, that trade-off is worth the broader suite Rippling offers.
If you want an all-in-one system, Rippling is a solid option. If fast global hiring is your focus, a more specialized platform may be a better fit.
Skuad is an employer of record platform. It helps with hiring and contractor management in over 160 countries. Skuad makes global onboarding easy. Companies can hire international talent without needing local entities.
The platform focuses on speed and ease. It manages payroll, contracts, and basic compliance. Its clear pricing appeals to teams with simple needs or those expanding into new countries.
Skuad is a great choice for businesses that want quick and easy setup. If you need extra support or long-term flexibility, a more complete platform could be a better choice.
Papaya Global is an employer of record platform. It helps companies manage payroll and hire in over 160 countries. This platform is great for finance and operations teams. They need visibility into international payroll and detailed reporting.
The platform connects with ERP and HCM systems. This gives larger companies a clear view of payroll, laws, and tax information across countries. It helps teams stay organized and compliant.
Papaya Global is a strong option for businesses with in-house compliance expertise. If you prefer a more intuitive platform or need hands-on support, simpler options may work better.
Globalization Partners, or G P, is an employer of record platform for large businesses. It helps companies hire and manage staff while following local laws, taxes, and immigration rules.
G P is known for its legal strength and global reach. It suits corporations with teams to handle complex vendor relationships and workflows.
Its pricing is tailored and often high, which may not fit smaller or fast-growing teams. While great for large operations, it may lack the flexibility that businesses of all sizes require.
Safeguard Global is an employer of record platform that also provides managed HR support. It focuses on industries with strict rules, like healthcare, finance, and government.
With over 300 legal and HR experts, it helps companies stay compliant in tough situations.
The service leans more towards traditional HR outsourcing than quick tech solutions. This is beneficial for businesses needing support in the background.
The platform does help with compliance, but it can seem slow and less flexible. For companies wanting quick onboarding or more control, other options might be better. This is especially true in fast-paced global environments.
Finding the right Deel alternative comes down to what your team really needs. Some platforms help you onboard faster, offer better support, and give you more control as you grow. They are designed to match your pace. The tools are out there. Now it's just a matter of choosing the one that fits you best.
Deel is a known name in global hiring, but it may not suit every company. As it has expanded, some businesses found it less flexible. Support can be slow, and the approach may feel too standardized in complex situations.
Concerns about transparency came up after a legal case challenged the company’s practices. As a result, firms that value trust and partnerships began to look for other options.
The good news is that other platforms offer a different experience. Some, like Remote and Oyster, provide solid infrastructure and broad coverage. Others, like Rivermate, focus on fast onboarding, real support, and adapting to your business needs.
If you are reconsidering how you hire across borders, now is the time to find a partner that fits your work style.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right platform depends on how your team works and what you need most.
Here are a few key questions to help guide your choice:
Some platforms onboard new hires within days. Others may take longer, which could slow things down if you are scaling quickly.
If you do not have a full HR or legal team, having quick access to real people who can help is a big plus.
Clear and simple pricing is easier to manage than platforms with setup fees or hidden costs.
Choosing a platform that connects with your existing payroll or HR tools can save a lot of time and hassle.
Some providers follow a more fixed model, while others adapt to how your team operates and grows.
If you want a partner that is fast, supportive, and easy to work with, consider Rivermate. If you have systems in place and need more structure, Remote or Oyster might be better options.
The best choice is the one that works the way your business does.
Building a global team means more than just hiring across time zones. You need to navigate different laws, payroll processes, benefits, and cultural expectations. All of these elements are essential to keeping your operations running smoothly.
A strong platform keeps you aligned with local labour laws. It helps manage contracts and taxes. It also ensures a smooth onboarding process for employees and contractors in various countries. The platform should also connect easily with your current tools. This way, your HR and finance teams can stay organised and focused.
The best solutions provide more than just the basics. Onboarding, payroll, expense tracking, and time-off management are crucial. However, flexibility is equally important. If you’re growing fast or looking to hire internationally, choose a platform that can grow with you.
Not all global hiring platforms are built the same. Before choosing one, focus on what truly matters to your team and your long-term goals.
Here are five things to look for:
Support that actually shows up Hiring across borders means challenges can pop up at any time. Pick a provider that acts fast and gives real support. Avoid those that make you wait when it matters.
Clear and honest pricing Avoid platforms with hidden fees or confusing contracts. A simple pricing model keeps things steady. It lets you plan your growth with confidence.
Local compliance you can trust Each country has its own rules. A solid platform helps you follow local laws, so you stay compliant wherever you hire.
Fast and smooth onboarding Speed matters when building global teams. Look for a partner that can get new hires up and running quickly, without delays or extra hassle.
A platform your team loves. Your HR and finance teams shouldn’t have to deal with clunky software. A tidy dashboard and clever integrations help you manage time off and payroll easily.
When you know what your team really needs, choosing the best fit becomes much easier.
Deel is a powerful platform with a global name. It’s full of features and is great for companies that need a structured, self-service model. But as many teams have discovered, global hiring is rarely a plug-and-play experience. When the process gets tricky, having someone to guide you through it becomes a lot more important.
That’s where Rivermate stands out.
Deel focuses on scale and automation. In contrast, Rivermate uses a service-first approach. Support is easy to access. Real people respond quickly, and onboarding often finishes in just a few days. For teams hiring in complex locations or across time zones, this responsiveness is crucial.
Clients also see a difference in pricing. Deel provides flexibility, but costs can change based on the country or contract. Rivermate’s flat-fee model gives growing teams clear budgeting confidence.
The experience with Rivermate often feels less like using a tool and more like having a team behind you. For companies that want both speed and support, it’s a difference you feel from day one.
Rivermate is more than just an EOR tool. It's a full-service platform that helps you hire and manage employees and contractors in over 150 countries. You can do this without the usual complications of international operations.
Here is what you can expect when using Rivermate:
Fast onboarding Most hires are onboarded within two business days. Your team can start working quickly, without delays or confusion.
Human support when you need it. If you have a compliance question or need help during your contract, real people are ready to assist you. They understand your situation. No bots, no long wait times.
Compliance you can trust Contracts, payroll, and benefits are all handled in line with local laws. Rivermate takes care of the details so you can focus on your business with confidence.
Simple and transparent pricing There are no setup fees, no hidden charges, and no long-term commitments. Just one clear monthly rate that makes budgeting easier.
A platform that fits your workflow You can track PTO, manage expenses, and store employee records in one place. It also connects with the systems you already use, so everything works smoothly.
Rivermate makes global hiring easier and turns it into an opportunity. With our tools and support, you can achieve this goal.
Expanding your team internationally should be a step forward, not a confusing one. The right platform makes managing contracts, payroll, benefits, and compliance across countries enjoyable.
Rivermate is made for companies that want to grow without the usual hassle. It offers fast onboarding, responsive support, clear pricing, and full compliance. This design helps you move faster and feel supported at every turn.
Ready to reduce the stress of global hiring? Book a demo with Rivermate and see what's possible for your growth.
An Employer of Record (EOR) legally employs workers for you in countries where you don’t have a local presence. An EOR does more than a payroll provider. It manages employment contracts, onboarding, local law compliance, benefits, and taxes, not just salary payments.
While Deel is a robust platform, it isn't the perfect fit for every team. Some businesses may require quicker support, simpler pricing, or greater flexibility with onboarding and integrations. Looking at different options helps companies find a solution that fits their hiring style and growth goals.
Rivermate offers fast onboarding, dedicated support, and full compliance in over 150 countries. It combines personalised service with smart tools. This makes it easy to manage employees and contractors without local setups. With clear pricing and a user-friendly platform, it’s a strong choice for companies wanting help as they expand globally.
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.
Our Employer of Record (EOR) solution makes it easy to hire, pay, and manage global employees.
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