What is SIAE tax?
The Italian music tax you definitely need to have in place for your wedding. And we promise it’s easier than it has ever been to get sorted!
Photo: Lou Lou Memphis
What is SIAE tax?
An amount which is owed to the Societa Italiana degli Autori ed Editori, an Italian governing body for music to be played either live or recorded at any party, event or wedding in Italy. It’s a bit like music royalties. The payable amount will differ depending on the type of music you have, the number of guests and the event itself.
What do you need it for?
Any event during your Italian wedding celebration where there is music being played by a band, singer, DJ or through a PA system. So that includes the hired DJ for your after party, music played through an amp during your meal or aperitif and any musicians you use. Even for your pool/pizza party the next morning - if music is being played, you need a licence. This stands for weddings at official Italian wedding venues as well as hired villas.
What does it cost?
Live music: 268 - 407 euro
Recorded music: 378 - 574 euro
Live and recorded music: 378 - 574 euro
If you have a wedding of less than 200 people, budget for the lesser amount.
How do you get it?
It’s easy - either complete the online form or visit one of their local offices to your venue in Italy, where you can pay for the document in-person.
CLICK HERE to complete your form online - ready with your name, DOB, home address, venue address, date of event(s), number of guests and payment card. You will first need to verify an account, then complete the application process and you’ll receive an email with the confirmed licence. Another wedding checklist item, done.
Musician: Fix The Music
Whose responsibility is it?
This one is on you! If you have a planner for your destination wedding in Italy, they may well take this off your hands, but do double check this is the case. If you are using a professional DJ it is still your responsibility to ensure you have the licence.
Why should you pay it?
First off your Italian wedding venue will ask you for confirmation of the licence, so don’t leave it too last minute and panic on the morning of your wedding. Plus, you do not want the stress of a potential (fairly unlikely, but still….) spot check carried out by the SIAE. No wedding day drama please!
Musician: DJ Danny Howen
Want your party to go off? Set an incredible ethereal atmosphere during your ceremony? Bring the authentic vibes to your aperitif? All musicians listed on La Lista are full of soul, energy and have our complete trust, so you know exactly what to expect - perhaps throw in a few musical surprises for guests along the way!
