Do I have to register specially for clients outside the EU?

Not in the same way as for the EU — the intra-EU VAT rules do not apply to clients outside the EU, but check the exact regime with an accountant, especially if you also work with clients in the USA or the UK.

Which exchange rate do I declare the income at?

At the National Bank rate on the actual date of receipt, under the accounting rules — an invoicing platform or your accountant can automate this for you.

Does the platform I am paid through matter (Payoneer, Wise, direct bank transfer)?

Not for the tax calculation — only the amount received and the date matter, whatever the channel. The platform's fees are a deductible expense if you are in the real-income system.

Freelancing for foreign clients — the taxes you owe in Romania

What changes compared with Romanian clients

Currency conversion — income is declared in lei, at the National Bank rate on the day you receive it (or the monthly average rate, depending on your accounting policy).
VAT — for services to companies in the EU, reverse charge usually applies (you do not collect VAT), but you have to register for intra-EU VAT (a special code, even if you are under the exemption ceiling).
The contract — a simple services contract or invoice is enough; you do not need a special legal structure for foreign clients.

Income tax, CAS and CASS stay the same

There is no “discount” for income from abroad — the 10% income tax, the 25% CAS (at the ceilings) and the 10% CASS are worked out identically, wherever the money comes from. Calculate below on your own figures, already converted to lei.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register specially for clients outside the EU?: Not in the same way as for the EU — the intra-EU VAT rules do not apply to clients outside the EU, but check the exact regime with an accountant, especially if you also work with clients in the USA or the UK.
Which exchange rate do I declare the income at?: At the National Bank rate on the actual date of receipt, under the accounting rules — an invoicing platform or your accountant can automate this for you.
Does the platform I am paid through matter (Payoneer, Wise, direct bank transfer)?: Not for the tax calculation — only the amount received and the date matter, whatever the channel. The platform's fees are a deductible expense if you are in the real-income system.