Amendments to the Federal Labor Law and the Federal Copyright

Law regarding the rights of performing artists

May 20, 2026

On May 14, 2026, a Decree amending and adding various provisions to the Federal Labor Law (LFT) and the Federal Copyright Law (LFDA) regarding the rights of performing artists was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation.

The reform addresses various practices that have been implemented in the creative industries over the years and, with the increasing use of technology, have created new challenges regarding the use of image, voice, and artistic performance.

1. Main Amendments to the Federal Labor Law.Chapter XI of Title Six of the LFT regarding special professions is amended to be titled “Performing Artists” to specify the scope of application. Articles 304, 307, 308 (first paragraph), 309, and 310 were amended, while Article 305 Bis has been added. In general terms, the changes include the following:
   
   • Express recognition of the professional status of performing artists.
   • Greater precision regarding the material scope of application of the law to include activities such as theater, film, radio, television, and dubbing.
   • The obligation to establish clear contractual terms regarding:
     • the form and amount of remuneration;
     • the scope of the use of performances; and
     • authorization for the use of image, voice, and technological tools, including artificial intelligence.
2. Main Amendments to the Federal Copyright Law.

For its part, the regime of the Federal Copyright Law applicable to artistic works in advertising has been expressly expanded to include performing artists. Although in practice there was already a favorable interpretation for the holders of related rights regarding the use of performances in advertising, the reform now expressly recognizes this in the law.

Likewise, the requirement to obtain authorization for the use of image, voice, performances, or renditions  through artificial intelligence and other technological tools remains in place.

In general, the reform establishes the following:

• Special limitations are established regarding the use of performances in advertising.
• The definition of performer is expanded to include voice actors and dubbing artists.
• It is required to specify the ways and means by which performers will be contracted.
• Authorization for the use of image must indicate specific purposes, including use in artificial intelligence and other technological tools.
• A legal presumption that favors the holder´s related rights is incorporated.

One of the most significant aspects of the reform is a provision excepting the use of a performer´s image or voice when such use is for the purpose of parody, satire, or creative imitation. This is allowed when such use does not constitute cloning or impersonation that may mislead the public, nor is it intended to replace the artist’s professional services in the market. This amendment could represent a significant shift in the interpretive criteria that has been used in recent years regarding the use of image, voice, and creative imitation in Mexico.

Finally, the reform adds the names of artistic and cultural events to the list of reserved rights. As a result, individuals engaged in artistic production may request a reservation of rights for exclusive use in these works, thereby strengthening their legal protection against unauthorized use.

If you would like to learn more about this topic or how to comply with these new obligations, we´re happy to be of assistance.