TLDR Romania introduced a three-tier tax system on gambling winnings starting August 1, 2026. The new rules raise the state’s cut of payouts at every level, from small wins to large prizes. The tax change is part of Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan’s plan to cut Romania’s budget deficit. Romania’s gambling regulator faces a corruption case involving a deputy director accused of taking bribes. A 2025 audit found nearly €1 billion in unpaid gambling tax revenue.
Romania has a new tax rule on gambling winnings. It took effect on August 1, 2026.
The change is part of a fiscal plan led by Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan. The goal is to reduce the country’s budget deficit.
That deficit currently sits at 7% of GDP. This is the highest rate in Central Europe and above the limit set by the European Commission.
To meet its commitments with Brussels, the government created a three-tier withholding system. It raises the state’s share of gambling payouts across the board.
Winnings up to RON10,000, or about €2,000, are now taxed at 4%. That is up from the previous rate of 3%.
Prizes between RON10,001 and RON66,750 face a flat fee of RON400 plus 20% of the amount above RON10,000.
For winnings above RON66,750, the tax jumps to RON11,750 plus 40% of the extra amount.
Bolojan’s Wider Reform Push
The gambling tax is one part of a larger set of fiscal changes. Bolojan’s government is also raising VAT and excise duties.
Bolojan was elected in 2025 alongside President Nicușor Dan. Their election gave new energy to a broader push to overhaul gambling laws and licensing rules.
The reform effort is supported by a four-party coalition made up of PSD, PNL, USR, and UDMR. Each party has its own priorities within the plan.
USR has been