Music knows no borders — it resonates with people across the world. That’s why it’s important to understand how your music generates income, even when it’s played outside your home country.
How your royalties are managed worldwide
As a Sabam member, your rights are managed internationally through our partner authors' societies abroad.
- Representation: Sabam has agreements with nearly all foreign authors' societies. When your music is used in their territory, they collect the royalties on your behalf.
- Transfer: The royalties collected abroad are transferred to Sabam.
- Verification and payment: Sabam checks the incoming data to detect and correct any errors, ensuring you receive the right amount. Your royalties are then paid out to you.
Discover the list of all partner societies we collaborate with.
A few important notes
- Independent rules: Each foreign society operates under its own national legislation and internal policies. This means that not all types of music or usage are always represented.
- Rate differences: The royalty rates for music usage abroad may differ from Belgian rates, depending on the country and its economic context.
When will you receive your royalties?
Royalties for the use of your music at concerts and festivals abroad are paid through the International Performance Rights distribution, which takes place four times a year.
Get paid faster — with your help
Organisers usually provide us with budgets and setlists, but this can take time. Submit your usage or setlist via MyPlaylist in MySabam. It helps us process and pay your rights more quickly.