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Performing Rights Organisation · France

How to register with SACEM.

Register with SACEM, France's performing and mechanical rights society, to collect royalties on your compositions from French radio, TV, streaming, and live events — plus internationally through CISAC's 120+ member societies.

⏱ 30–45 minutesPerformance royaltiesMechanical royalties
1

Verify Eligibility with Proof of Use

SACEM requires proof of use — documented evidence that at least one original work has been publicly exploited. Acceptable proof includes:

  • A screenshot showing your music on Spotify, Apple Music, or another streaming platform
  • A YouTube link with at least 1,000 views
  • A released physical product (CD or vinyl)
  • A live performance booking contract

    • Without proof of use, your application will be declined. Prepare your documentation before starting.

    SACEM Membership Info →
    Why this matters

    SACEM is not open to all creators — it requires demonstrated exploitation of your catalog. This protects the collection pool but means you need evidence of public use before applying.

    Common mistake

    Applying before your music is publicly released. Have at least one track on a streaming platform before starting — a Spotify URL with any plays is the simplest proof of use.

    2

    Gather Required Documents

    Prepare the following before starting your application:

  • Copy of your passport or national ID
  • Bank account details (IBAN)
  • Social security number (for French citizens/residents)
  • Proof of use (from Step 1)

    • Membership fees (one-time):

  • Creators: €100
  • Publishers: €300

    • SACEM also invests significantly in cultural grants for emerging artists — members may apply for financial support programmes.

    Why this matters

    Having all documents ready before starting prevents delays. SACEM reviews applications manually and an incomplete submission resets the process.

    Common mistake

    Submitting without your IBAN. SACEM requires bank details upfront — without them, your membership cannot be fully activated even after approval.

    3

    Submit Your Application Online

    Apply via the SACEM creators portal. The application covers both your personal member information and your initial work declarations.

    Join SACEM →SACEM Main Site
    Why this matters

    SACEM's global CISAC membership means your French registration triggers collection in 120+ countries through reciprocal agreements — a single registration with international reach.

    Common mistake

    Not declaring any works at the time of application. Begin declaring your catalog immediately after joining — royalties only accumulate on registered works.

    4

    Register Your Works

    After membership confirmation, register each composition via the SACEM member portal:

  • Title (must match DSP metadata exactly)
  • Duration
  • Your role (composer, lyricist, arranger)
  • Co-writer IPI numbers and split percentages
  • ISRC codes for each recording
    • SACEM Member Portal →
    Why this matters

    SACEM only pays royalties on registered works. Every quarter of unregistered music is permanently lost revenue from French radio, TV, and streaming.

    Common mistake

    Not adding ISRC codes. For streaming royalties, SACEM needs the ISRC to match your composition to specific recordings on DSPs. Title matching alone frequently fails.

    After you register

    SACEM handles composition rights. If you perform your own recordings, also register with ADAMI (featured performers) or SPEDIDAM (session musicians) to collect neighbouring rights on your master recordings.

    Rekon tracks whether you're actually registered with SACEM — and 36 others.

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