Copyright

Copyright Registration in India

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal right granted to the creator of original works (literary, artistic, musical, dramatic, cinematographic, software, etc.) to control the use of their creations. It protects original expression and not ideas, procedures, methods, or concepts.

Works Protected Under Copyright:

  • Literary works (books, articles, software/code)
  • Musical works (composition, lyrics)
  • Dramatic works (scripts, plays)
  • Artistic works (paintings, drawings, photos, designs)
  • Cinematograph films (movies, videos)
  • Sound recordings (audio files, music)
  • Computer software and databases

Why Register a Copyright?

  • Legal evidence of ownership
  • Helps in enforcement & protection
  • Basis for royalty or licensing
  • Crucial for legal disputes or infringement
  • Useful for international protection (via Berne Convention)

Who Can Apply for Copyright Registration?

  • Author or creator of the work
  • Owner or assignee of the copyright
  • Legal heir or representative

Copyright Registration Process in India

  1. Create Your Work
  2. Prepare Documents (Form XIV, Statement of Particulars, 2 Copies of Work, NOC, Power of Attorney, Software source & object code)
  3. File the Application online
  4. Receive Diary Number & wait 30 days
  5. Handle objections if raised
  6. Examination by Copyright Examiner
  7. Registration & Certificate Issuance

Government Fees (2025)

Work TypeFee
Literary, Artistic, Software₹500
Cinematographic films₹5,000
Sound recordings₹2,000
Work published by a company₹2,000
Dramatic/Musical work₹2,000

Time Required

2–3 months minimum; 6–12 months with objections.

  • Copyright does not protect titles, slogans, or logos (apply for trademark instead).
  • Registration is optional but recommended.
  • International protection via Berne Convention.
  • Duration: Lifetime + 60 years (literary, musical, artistic); 60 years from publication (films, recordings).

Legal Remedies for Infringement

  • Send cease & desist notice
  • File civil suit (damages, injunction)
  • File criminal complaint

Tips for Applicants

  • Retain proof of creation
  • Consider legal expert assistance
  • Check for plagiarism before applying
  • Register each version if significantly updated

Professional Assistance: Lexclaws.com offers end-to-end copyright filing at www.lexclaws.com

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