freelancers

A Romanian draft Government emergency decree, which almost doubles the level of social security contributions those who gain income from freelance activities must pay starting 2011, was debated in the Government, but no decisions were taken, Labor Minister Ioan Botis told MEDIAFAX Saturday.

Romanians who gain income from freelance activities will pay, starting with 2011, social security contributions of at least 25.36% up to 35% of their income, nearly double from the current level of contributions, according to a draft government emergency decree.

Romanian Prime Minister Emil Boc said Friday he is willing to hold talks with freelancers, who said they will stage protests and will not pay the new taxes on income gained from copyright, in order to make them understand that the amendments to the Tax Code are not directed against “true creators.”

Romania’s government is planning to stop exempting people from paying social security contributions for income gained from copyright, royalties and various collaboration contracts, people close to the matter told MEDIAFAX.