What’s an SIAE licence and do I need one?

In this Article

Share

If you’re planning a wedding in Italy, chances are you’ve got the dreamy details nailed down, but there’s one not-so-glamorous bit of Italian wedding wedmin that often catches couples by surprise: the SIAE licence.

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your music legal and your party stress-free.

What is the SIAE licence?

SIAE (pronounced see-ah-eh) stands for Società Italiana degli Autori ed Editori – the Italian Society of Authors and Publishers. Essentially it’s Italy’s version of a performing rights organisation.

If you’re playing music at your wedding (whether it’s a live band, a DJ, or even just a playlist from your phone) you’ll need an SIAE licence.

The licence makes sure that the artists whose music is being played get the royalties they’re owed. It’s a legal requirement, and without it, your wedding venue (or even you as the couple) could be fined.

When do you need the SIAE licence?

The simple rule is that if music is being played at your event then you need a licence.

And yes… unfortunately each event counts separately, so if you’re planning a multi-day celebration (which many Italian weddings are!) then you’ll need a licence for each day that music is played. This includes your pre and post wedding events, like welcome dinners or pool parties. Even low-key background music or a Spotify playlist around the pool needs an SIAE licence.

How much does it cost?

The cost of a SIAE licence depends on a few factors, including the type of music being played (recorded, live band or DJ) and the number of guests. As a ballpark figure, expect to pay roughly between €150 to €350 per event. The good news is that the price is cheaper for your pre and post wedding events than on your wedding day, because these are classed as ‘private parties’ which have a slightly cheaper licence than weddings.

Some DJs and musicians include the SIAE licence in their fee so make sure you double check this and don’t end up paying twice – especially if you’re hiring multiple music vendors!

How do I apply for the SIAE licence?

The good news is that it’s really simple and the licence is generated instantly once you’ve paid. You apply directly through the SIAE website here – there’s an English language option so no need to try and navigate it in Italian! Just create an account, fill out your details and you’re good to go.

If for any reason you can’t apply online, you can also do it in person at a local SIAE office once in Italy (but the online option is by far the easiest!) Your wedding venue or planner will be well versed in SIAE and can help guide you if you’re unsure on anything too.

Although the licence is instant, you can’t apply on the day of the event itself, so make sure you have it checked off in plenty of time.

Can I get away with not getting a licence?

Could you get away with it? Probably. Would it be ethical? Nope. Would it cause you unnecessary stress on the happiest day of your life? Almost definitely!

While skipping it might seem tempting, the SIAE licence is a legal requirement and it wouldn’t be fair to your venue to put them at risk of a fine. Some venues and planners will even ask to see proof ahead of your celebration. And although surprise inspections and disputes are rare, they do happen and nobody needs that stress on their wedding day!

In short?

If your wedding in Italy includes music (and let’s face it, it probably does), then the SIAE licence is something you’ll need to plan for and factor into your budget. It’s a small piece of wedmin that makes sure everything runs smoothly and keeps your celebration completely above board. Once it’s sorted, you can turn the volume up and celebrate knowing everything is perfectly in tune.

Recommended Planning Tools

You don’t want to be without these planning tools if you’re getting married in Italy. From trackers to templates, and detailed step-by-step guides… these are the resources that will help you level up your Italian wedding.

Next Articles