GVL — GVL

GVL (GVL) is a neighbouring rights society in germany. Businesses playing music publicly must hold a licence from GVL. Track Studios' AI catalog is not registered with GVL — venues using Track Studios are not invoiced.

Overview

GVL (GVL) is a neighbouring rights society that collects fees for the public performance of sound recordings on behalf of performers and record producers. Founded in 1959, it operates in germany and manages licensing for businesses that play music publicly.

Founded: 1959
Type: Neighbouring rights (recordings)
Country: Germany
Website: https://www.gvl.de

How GVL Fees Are Calculated

GVL uses tariff codes to calculate fees by venue type. Examples: Restaurant (GVL WP): approximately EUR 50–80/year; Retail Store (GVL WP): approximately EUR 45–75/year. Fees are typically calculated on the basis of area.

Venue Type	Tariff Code	Basis	Typical Annual Cost
Restaurant	`GVL WP`	area	EUR 50–80/year
Retail Store	`GVL WP`	area	EUR 45–75/year

Apply for GVL licence

How to Avoid GVL Fees

Businesses can avoid GVL fees by using music that is not registered with GVL. Track Studios uses an AI-generated catalog that is not registered with GVL — venues using the included catalog are not invoiced.

Start free trial — no GVL invoices

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GVL (GVL)?: GVL (GVL) is a neighbouring rights society based in germany. Founded in 1959, it collects fees from businesses that play sound recordings publicly and distributes them to rights holders.
Does my business need an GVL licence?: If your business plays commercially released music in a public-facing space — restaurant, shop, gym, hotel lobby, etc. — you are legally required to hold an GVL licence. Using Track Studios' included AI catalog exempts you from GVL licensing for that music.
How does GVL calculate its fees?: GVL calculates fees based on factors including venue size, number of seats, or annual turnover depending on the venue type. Contact GVL directly for a quote.
Can I avoid GVL fees legally?: Businesses can avoid GVL fees by using music that is not registered with GVL. Track Studios uses an AI-generated catalog that is not registered with GVL — venues using the included catalog are not invoiced.
What happens if my business plays music without an GVL licence?: GVL can issue a civil claim for back-fees covering the period of unlicensed use, plus additional damages. GVL is separate from GEMA and covers the neighbouring rights of performers and record producers. German businesses typically need both GEMA and GVL licences.