Resources
Stay informed with expert guides, latest advice, and FAQs on global hiring.
Resources
Stay informed with expert guides, latest advice, and FAQs on global hiring.
Blog / Latest Advice
How to Hire in the UK via EOR?
An Employer of Record (EOR) allows businesses to hire UK employees without creating a local company. The EOR manages payroll, HR, benefits, and legal compliance, making it fast and low-risk for global firms to onboard UK talent.
GCC Labor Law Updates 2025
The GCC region has seen significant updates in labor laws to address employee rights, contract terms, and end-of-service benefits. Staying informed ensures companies remain compliant and avoid penalties in countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others.
EOR vs Entity Formation: What’s Right for Your Business?
The GCC region has seen significant updates in labor laws to address employee rights, contract terms, and end-of-service benefits. Staying informed ensures companies remain compliant and avoid penalties in countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others.
Navigating UK Payroll and Tax Compliance
UK payroll compliance requires accurate tax calculations, national insurance contributions, and timely reporting. Foreign employers must understand UK payroll regulations to avoid legal issues and ensure correct employee compensation.
Understanding Visa Sponsorship in the GCC
Hiring foreign talent in the GCC involves selecting the correct visa route and sponsorship model, complying with local rules for expatriate work permits, renewals, and employer responsibilities related to employee status and legal stay.
UK Employment Guide
Payroll and Taxation
The UK uses the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system, where employers deduct income tax and National Insurance contributions from employee salaries. They are responsible for submitting these deductions to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) on time and ensuring that all payroll records are accurate.
Employment Contracts
Employers must provide a written contract outlining job role, pay, working hours, and other conditions. Contracts should include mandatory clauses set by law, specify any probation period, and clearly define procedures for termination or resignation.
Employee Benefits
UK employees are entitled to statutory benefits such as paid holiday (at least 28 days/year including public holidays), sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and access to workplace pensions. Employers must ensure these minimum standards are met.
Visa Routes
Hiring non-UK nationals usually requires sponsoring a work visa. Main routes include the Skilled Worker visa (for qualified roles), the Global Talent visa (for leaders in certain industries), and Temporary Worker visas (for seasonal or short-term jobs). Employers must be approved sponsors to use these routes.
Compliance
UK employers must follow legal requirements covering fair treatment at work, preventing discrimination, protecting employee data, and providing a healthy and safe workplace. Regular updates to employment law mean ongoing compliance checks are key.
GCC Market Guide
Local Labor Law Overview
Each GCC country has its own labor regulations governing contracts, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination rules. Understanding these laws ensures fair employment practices and legal compliance. Employers must also stay updated on recent reforms and local authority requirements.
Cultural Norms
Workplace interactions in the GCC are influenced by respect, hierarchy, and cultural sensitivity. Building strong professional relationships requires awareness of local customs, communication styles, and religious practices. Understanding these norms helps foster trust and effective collaboration.
Visa & Sponsorship Models
Most GCC countries operate under sponsorship systems where employers are responsible for employee visas and work permits. The process varies by country, covering residency, renewals, and exit procedures. An Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify visa management and compliance.
Market Compensation Trends
Compensation packages in the GCC often include base salary plus allowances for housing, transport, and education. Benefits like health insurance and end-of-service gratuity are standard. Salary levels vary across industries and countries, reflecting cost of living and market demand.
HR Compliance
Employers must adhere to labor laws covering working hours, annual leave, and end-of-service benefits. Proper record-keeping and fair treatment help prevent disputes and penalties. Staying compliant ensures smooth operations and protects both the employer and employees.
FAQ'S ( Frequently Asked Questions )
Employer of Record (EOR) is a service that allows companies to hire employees in a foreign country without the need to establish a legal entity there. The EOR handles payroll, tax, benefits, contracts, and compliance on behalf of the client company.
Yes, by using an Employer of Record service, you can legally hire and pay employees in the UK without setting up your own legal entity.
Costs typically include the employee’s salary, statutory taxes, social security contributions, benefits, and the EOR service fee. Detailed cost breakdowns depend on the country and employment terms.
While the EOR handles administrative and compliance responsibilities, your company remains responsible for managing employee performance, defining job roles, and ensuring overall work direction.
Onboarding times vary but usually take between 1 to 4 weeks depending on the complexity of roles, visa requirements, and regulatory checks.
If you decide to establish your own legal entity after initially using an EOR, transitioning employees can be done smoothly with coordinated support, minimizing disruption and ensuring compliance.