Circle8 is proud partner of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team. Lees hier meer.
blog

The new AI legislation: protection or restriction for freelancers?

AI is no longer futuristic; it has become an integral part of the modern workplace. From smart recruitment tools to AI-driven data analysis, the influence of artificial intelligence is visible everywhere. But with this growth, new rules also come. Since February 2025 the European AI Regulation (AI Act) has officially come into effect, under which the European Union imposes strict rules on the use of AI.

17 Maart 2025
Reading time 4 minutes
Share this article
17 Maart 2025
Reading time 4 minutes
Share this article

But what does this mean now for you as a freelancer or as a client? How can you as an independent professional or organization comply with this new legislation and continue to benefit from the changes in AI? In this blog we set out the most important points and help you navigate these changes.

What does the new AI Regulation legislation entail?
The AI Act is the first legislation in the world that specifically regulates AI. The goal? To promote safe and ethical AI applications and ban harmful practices. The law classifies AI systems into four risk levels:

1.Prohibited AI applications:These are applications that violate fundamental rights, such as real-time biometric surveillance in public spaces and AI that unconsciously influences behavior.
2.High-risk AI systems:These are applications of AI in recruitment and selection, credit assessments and medical diagnoses. Strict transparency and risk management requirements apply to these applications.
3.Limited risk AIAI systems that interact with users, such as chatbots, must be transparent about their operation and AI-based nature.
4.Low risk AI:These are applications that pose little risk and for which no additional regulations apply.

What consequences does this have for self-employed people?
AI is a useful tool for many freelancers to work more efficiently, but the new European AI legislation also brings additional obligations. Transparency is now essential: do you use AI for content creation or marketing? Then you must indicate when texts or visuals have been generated by AI. Do you work in recruitment or HR? AI tools used for selection processes fall under ‘high risk’ and must comply with strict rules.

Even if you provide AI advice, you are responsible for informing your clients about this legislation. AI offers plenty of opportunities, but now also requires mindful and responsible application.

And what does this mean for clients?
For clients and suppliers who hire freelancers or deploy AI in their processes, the new AI legislation brings important obligations. The use of artificial intelligence must be more transparent and comply with stricter rules to limit risks.

  • Transparency obligation:Do you use AI in selection procedures or client processes? Then you are required to communicate this clearly to candidates, self-employed contractors (zzp’ers) and clients. This prevents deception and contributes to fair and responsible decision-making.

  • Compliance risks: AI systems that fall under the ‘high-risk’ category, such as automated recruitment tools or customer profiling, must demonstrably comply with legal requirements. This means that you as an organization must be able to justify your AI processes and may have to undergo audits.

  • Contractual obligations: The deployment of AI tools brings additional compliance requirements and risk analyses. This means that you must adjust your contracts with suppliers and freelancers to make clear agreements about AI use, data protection and compliance.

By proactively responding to this regulation now, you avoid legal problems and ensure that you deploy your AI in a responsible and effective manner.Tip: Make sure your contracts and processes comply with the new legislation. Are you working with suppliers who offer AI tools? Check whether they are compliant too!

How can you prepare for the AI regulation?
As a freelancer it is important to be aware of the new AI legislation and how it affects your work. Check whether the AI tools you use comply with the new regulations and ensure transparency towards your clients and customers about when and how you use AI. Legislation around AI continues to evolve, so it is crucial to stay informed about updates and new guidelines.

Do you want to stay up to date with developments in the market for you as a freelancer or client?
Sign up here for our newsletter and stay informed about the latest trends and developments.

undefined Read here the complete AI rules on the Rijksoverheid website.