Romania Raises Taxes on Gambling Winnings

Romania has implemented a new multi-tier tax system for gambling winnings as part of the government's efforts to reduce its budget deficit.

The revised tax structure came into effect on 1 August 2026, increasing the tax applied to gambling payouts across all winning thresholds. The measures form part of a broader fiscal strategy aimed at addressing Romania’s budget deficit, which stands at around 7% of GDP.

Under the updated rules, gambling winnings of up to RON10,000 (€2,000) are now subject to a 4% tax, replacing the previous 3% rate.

For winnings between RON10,001 (€2,000) and RON66,750 (€13,350), players must pay a flat tax of RON400 (€80) plus 20% on the portion exceeding RON10,000.

Winnings above RON66,750 are taxed at RON11,750 (€2,350), with an additional 40% applied to the amount exceeding that threshold.

The new taxation framework is part of a wider package of fiscal measures introduced by the government following the 2025 elections.

The changes also come as Romania’s gambling regulator continues to face scrutiny following a 2025 audit, which reported that nearly €1 billion in gambling tax revenue had not been collected, raising concerns about regulatory oversight and tax enforcement within the sector.