8 Best International Payroll Management Services for Your Business

One of the primary challenges of running an international business is managing payroll accurately and efficiently. Ensuring that employees are paid on time and in compliance with local laws and regulations can be daunting, especially when dealing with multiple currencies, tax systems, and employment laws.

Fortunately, several international payroll management services are available to help businesses streamline their processes and ensure compliance.

This article provides a breakdown of the eight best international payroll management services for your business, their pros and cons, and what sets them apart from the competition.

So, if you need a reliable and efficient solution for your international payroll needs, read on to find the best fit for your business.

Best International Payroll Management Services

1. Knit - Knit is a cloud-based payroll management solution that caters to businesses of all sizes. It offers an easy-to-use platform for employee payroll in multiple countries and currencies.
2. ADP - ADP is a global leader in HR and payroll solutions and has been in the industry for over 70 years. With its global presence, ADP can handle payroll for businesses of any size across multiple countries and currencies.
3. Deel - Deel is a popular platform for managing global payroll, especially for startups and freelancers. It offers automation features and seamless integration with other HR tools.
4. Papaya Global - Papaya is an integrated global payroll management platform offering a single contact point for all payroll needs. It also provides compliance and tax support in over 140 countries.
5. Rippling - Rippling is a comprehensive HR and payroll platform that caters to businesses of all sizes, including global enterprises. It offers automated onboarding, benefits administration, and compliance support features.
6. CloudPay - CloudPay provides an automated global payroll solution in over 130 countries, designed for multinational firms. Key offerings include advanced analytics and seamless integration with major HCM and ERP systems. While beneficial for large organisations, it may present complexity in implementation and limited customisation for smaller businesses.
7. Remofirst - Remofirst is an all-in-one global payroll and HR solution that caters to businesses of any size. It offers compliance support in over 100 countries and features like time tracking, expense management, and employee self-service.
8. Multiplier - Multiplier is a modern payroll platform that offers integrated solutions for global businesses, including payroll, benefits, and compliance. It also provides real-time data analytics to help businesses make informed decisions.

What is international payroll management?

International payroll management refers to managing and processing employee payrolls for businesses in multiple countries. This includes calculating salaries, tax deductions, benefits, and other deductions according to local laws and regulations.

It also involves converting currencies, managing different payment methods, and ensuring compliance with international regulations and reporting requirements.

Why is effective international payroll management important?

Properly managing international payroll is crucial for several reasons:

1. Compliance: Different countries have different employment laws and tax systems that businesses must comply with to avoid legal consequences.
2. Accuracy: Calculating employee payrolls accurately is essential for maintaining trust and retaining top talent.
3. Time-saving: Outsourcing payroll management can save businesses time and resources, allowing them to focus on core operations.
4. Cost-effective: Streamlining payroll processes can help reduce errors and administrative costs associated with managing multiple systems.
5. Data security: International payroll management services have strict security measures to protect sensitive employee information.

These considerations make it essential for businesses to invest in reliable international payroll management solutions.

What is the best international payroll management service?

There are several international payroll management services available. So, how do you choose the best one for your business?

Here are the criteria we used to evaluate the top eight international payroll management services:

• Global reach: The payroll company must have a strong presence in multiple countries to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
• User-friendly interface: The platform must be easy to use, with intuitive features and a simple interface.
• Customer support: The service should provide timely and responsive customer support for any issues or inquiries.
• Secure data handling: The service must have robust security measures to protect sensitive employee information.
• Experience: Look for a service with a proven track record of managing payroll in various countries and industries.
• Compliance: Ensure the service has expertise in local laws and regulations to avoid legal issues.
• Technology: A modern, user-friendly platform can make payroll management more efficient and accurate.

Based on these criteria, here are the top eight international payroll management services that we've selected for businesses of all sizes and industries:

Knit

Knit is an all-in-one payroll and HR software that simplifies international payroll management. It provides a modern, user-friendly platform that streamlines the entire process from onboarding to payment.

Key Features

Knits offers full-service payroll capabilities, with holistic support for all aspects of payroll, including taxes, benefits, and time off policies.

Not only is Knit focused on providing enterprise-level HR and payroll support for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Canada, but they also have comprehensive EOR services to help businesses expand globally.

Already used by 1500 businesses across Canada, supporting 10,000 employees and over half a billion in payroll processing annually, Knit offers a modern tech-based approach to payroll management.

Pros:

• Handles multiple currencies and languages
• Automates tax calculations and compliance with local laws
• Offers full compliance with GDPR and other data privacy regulations
• Personalised one-on-one assistance for specific plans

Cons:

• Actively expanding international coverage, so contact Knit to confirm service in your country.

Bottom line

For SMBs, Knit is a reliable and efficient payroll management solution that streamlines processes and ensures compliance.

Integrations

Quickbooks, Zero, CSV template downloads.

ADP

ADP is one of the most extensive global payroll management services, with a presence in 140 countries and processing over $1 trillion in annual payroll payments. It offers comprehensive services for businesses of all sizes and industries, including HR administration, time tracking, benefits management, and more.

Key Features

The ADP GlobalView payroll solution automates compliance with local laws, tax calculations, and multi-currency payroll transactions. Its user-friendly platform offers real-time analytics and reporting for better visibility into payroll processes. With 3,000 compliance and payroll regulations experts worldwide, ADP ensures accurate and compliant payroll management for businesses operating in multiple countries.

Pros:

• Strong global presence
• Offers multiple HR services in addition to payroll management
• Robust tax regulations compliance measures
• Real-time analytics and reporting

Cons:

• Can be expensive for for small businesses

Bottom line

For large businesses with global operations, ADP is a trusted and comprehensive solution for managing payroll functions and other HR services.

Integrations

Cognology, Jostle, ClearCompany, ExpertusONE, Spoke, Clearlogin, Limelight, Together Mentoring, Xecex, XOR, 360Learning, Qooper, Sift, uAttend, Xoxoday, Absorb LMS, EmployeeConnect, Rotageek, Workato

Deel

Deel is a cloud-based international payroll provider that supports hiring independent international contractors and freelancers globally. It offers compliance with local laws, customisable payment methods, and automated document collection for onboarding international employees.

Key Features

Deel's platform simplifies international payments with multi-currency support and automatic currency conversions. It also offers convenient integrations with popular tools like Slack and Gusto for streamlined processes. Deel focuses on automation and convenience and helps businesses save time and resources on managing payroll for freelancers.

Pros:

• Efficient payment processing for independent contractors
• Automated document collection
• Seamless integrations with other popular tools
• Strong compliance measures

Cons:

• Limited phone customer support hours

Bottom line

For businesses hiring international independent contractors and freelancers, Deel offers a convenient and efficient payroll provider solution that assists with visa sponsorship and other compliance measures.

Integrations

NetSuite, Quickbooks, Workable, Workday, Ashby, Expensify, Hibon, Okta, OneLogin, BambooHR, Greenhouse, Xero and an Open API for custom integrations.

Papaya Global

A cloud-based SaaS workforce management and international payroll service provider, Papaya offers a comprehensive platform for managing international teams, global payroll, and compliance. It caters to businesses of all sizes, from startup to enterprise-level.

Key Features

Papaya's platform uses AI and automation to streamline global payroll processes and ensure compliance with local laws in over 160 countries. Its services include workforce management, international payments, and benefits administration. Papaya also offers 24/7 support and a dedicated customer success manager for each client.

Pros:

• Strong compliance measures
• Uses AI and automation to streamline processes
• Dedicated customer success manager for each client
• Multi-country payroll platform available in over 14 languages

Cons:

• Limited presence in certain regions, such as Africa and the Middle East.

Bottom line

Papaya is a reliable and comprehensive solution for businesses operating globally. Using AI to reduce errors and ensure compliance sets it apart from other international payroll solutions, making it an ideal choice for businesses with complex international operations.

Integrations

BambooHR, Expensify, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Namely, NetSuite, Priority Software, SAP Business One, SAP Concur, and SAP SuccessFactors.

Rippling

In addition to providing international payroll management, Rippling offers an all-in-one HR platform for managing employee data, benefits, human capital management, and other administrative tasks. Its standout product is its robust applicant tracking system (ATS) that automates recruitment.

Key Features

Rippling's platform offers a seamless experience for managing payroll and other HR tasks, such as time tracking, benefits administration, and compliance with local laws. Its ATS uses AI to automate international hiring processes and find the best candidates for open positions. With a user-friendly interface and integrations with popular tools like Google Workspace and Slack, Rippling makes payroll and HR management efficient and hassle-free.

Pros:

• All-in-one platform for HR tasks
• Robust applicant tracking system using AI
• User-friendly interface
• Integrations with popular tools

Cons:

• Limited presence in countries outside of North America

Bottom line

For businesses looking for a comprehensive solution to manage HR tasks, Rippling offers a user-friendly platform with advanced features like AI-powered recruitment and integrations with popular tools and the usual payroll systems.

Integrations

1Password, Asana, DocuSign, Dropbox, GitHub, Google Workspace, LinkedIn, Microsoft 365, Netsuite, Sage Intacct, Slack, Typeform, and QuickBooks.

CloudPay

CloudPay offers a modern global payroll solution designed to meet the complex needs of multinational organisations. Their unified cloud solution processes all payrolls on a single, automated platform, promising accuracy, adaptability, and real-time visibility.

Key Features

• Cloud solution for global payroll processing in 130+ countries.
• Advanced analytics toolset for real-time performance monitoring and global visibility.
• Experienced payroll practitioners and continuous process improvement.

Pros:

• Intelligent process automation and compliance across borders.
• Seamless integration with leading HCM and ERP software.
• Direct access to experienced payroll experts for global support.

Cons:

• Implementation complexity may be challenging for smaller organisations.
• Customisation options might be limited in comparison to competitors.

Bottom Line

CloudPay stands out for its comprehensive global payroll solution, integrating advanced technology and expert support, making it ideal for large, multinational organisations seeking streamlined and compliant payroll processes.

Integrations

While Cloudpay lists it supports leading HCM and ERP software, it does not explicitly list them or any specific payroll integrations.

Remofirst

Offering a global payroll platform specifically designed for remote teams, Remofirst focuses on providing seamless payroll and compliance services for distributed workforces. Its platform is user-friendly and offers multi-currency payments in over 100 countries.

Key Features

Remofirst's platform caters to businesses with many remote workers by simplifying the payroll process and ensuring compliance with local laws. It also offers multi-currency payments, payroll taxes, and benefits administration in the 150 countries in which it operates. With its user-friendly interface and dedicated customer support team, Remofirst is an excellent option for businesses managing international workers.

Pros:

• User-friendly platform
• Multi-currency payments in over 100 countries
• Dedicated customer support
• Compliance with local laws

Cons:

• Limited presence in certain regions, such as Africa and the Middle East

Bottom line

For businesses with a remote workforce, Remofirst offers a specialised platform that makes international payroll management efficient and hassle-free. It also provides global benefits management and employer of record (EOR) services, making it a comprehensive solution for businesses with globally distributed teams.

Integrations

Xero, QuickBooks, Gusto, Workday, BambooHR, and more. Remofirst also offers integrations with third-party payment providers, including PayPal and Transferwise.

Multiplier

A unified global payroll solution for companies expanding into new markets, Multiplier offers end-to-end payroll management services in over 100 countries. Its platform also provides HR operations support, such as time tracking, benefits administration, and compliance with local laws.

Key Features

Multiplier's platform offers a single source of truth for managing HR and payroll compliance in multiple countries. It ensures compliance with local laws and supports various HR tasks, such as time tracking, benefits administration, and onboarding. With a user-friendly interface and dedicated customer support team, Multiplier makes global payroll management seamless for many businesses.

Pros:

• End-to-end payroll management services
• Compliance with local laws
• Supports payments in 120 + currencies
• Dedicated customer support

Cons:

• Costly compared to other options, making it less suitable for small businesses

Bottom line

Multiplier is a comprehensive global payroll partner for companies expanding into new markets that cover HR tasks and ensure compliance with local laws. Despite its higher cost, the platform's advanced features and dedicated customer support make it a top choice for larger businesses with global operations.

Integrations

The platform integrates with popular tools like Slack, Xero, and QuickBooks, making managing HR and payroll operations easier in one central location.

Choosing an international payroll management platform for your organisation

All the international payroll management platforms mentioned above offer valuable features and benefits for businesses with global operations. To choose the correct platform for your organisation, consider the following factors:

1. Business Needs

Assess your business's needs and requirements for managing HR tasks and payroll in various countries. For example, Remofirst or Multiplier may be the most suitable options if your business has a remote workforce. Multiplier may be better if you need a comprehensive solution for managing HR tasks and payroll.

2. Geographical Presence

Consider where your business operates and whether the payroll management platform has a presence in those regions. For example, if you have operations in countries like Africa or the Middle East, Remofirst may not be the best choice as it has limited availability in these regions. Knit may be a suitable option if you operate primarily in North America.

3. Integration Capabilities

If your business already uses other HR or payroll management tools and software, consider which platforms the international payroll management platform integrates with. This will help streamline processes and make managing HR and payroll operations more efficient. Making sure the platform integrates with your existing tools can also save time and money on implementing new systems, as it ensures compatibility and eliminates the need for duplicated efforts.

4. Cost

Different platforms have varying pricing structures, so consider your budget and whether the features offered justify the cost. Knit may be a more affordable and suitable option for smaller businesses, while larger businesses may benefit from Multiplier's advanced features despite its higher price.

5. User-Friendliness

Finally, consider the platform's user-friendliness and whether it offers good customer support. A complicated interface or lack of support can make managing global payroll more challenging and time-consuming. 

6. Scalability

Consider your future growth plans and whether the platform can accommodate them. You want to choose a platform that can handle your business's needs as it expands into new markets and grows. Platforms like Multiplier and Knit offer scalability with their end-to-end payroll management solutions, making them suitable for businesses with aggressive growth plans.

Streamline your international payroll management today

With the rise of remote work and global business operations, international payroll management has become crucial for businesses to consider.

By choosing the right platform for your organisation's needs, you can streamline this process and ensure compliance with local laws while providing timely payments to your employees worldwide.

Consider these top international payroll management platforms, their key features, and integrations, and choose the one that best fits your business needs. 

Check out the Knit blog for more tips and strategies on managing a remote workforce and expanding your business internationally. Our team of experts regularly shares valuable insights for businesses looking to succeed in the global market.