Copyright protects your original creative works from unauthorized use. This guide explains everything about copyright registration in India.
What is Copyright?
Copyright is an intellectual property right that protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic works, sound recordings, and cinematographic films.
In India, copyright is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957 and provides exclusive rights to the creator to reproduce, distribute, and display their work.
What Can Be Copyrighted?
Works Eligible for Copyright
- Literary Works: Books, articles, blogs, computer programs, databases
- Musical Works: Songs, compositions, musical notations
- Artistic Works: Paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, architecture
- Dramatic Works: Scripts, screenplays, choreography
- Sound Recordings: Audio recordings, podcasts
- Cinematographic Films: Movies, documentaries, videos
What Cannot Be Copyrighted
- Ideas, procedures, methods, systems
- Facts and information
- Names, titles, short phrases
- Government works
- Works in public domain
Benefits of Copyright Registration
1. Legal Evidence
Registration creates a public record and serves as prima facie evidence of ownership in court.
2. Right to Sue
Only registered copyright holder can file infringement suit in court.
3. Licensing Revenue
Registered copyright can be licensed to others for royalty income.
4. Deterrent Effect
Registration deters potential infringers as it establishes clear ownership.
Copyright Registration Process
Step 1: Create User Account
Visit copyright.gov.in and create an account with email verification.
Step 2: Fill Application Form
Fill Form XIV with details of work, author, and applicant.
Step 3: Upload Work Copies
Upload copies of the work to be registered in specified format.
Step 4: Pay Fees
Pay the prescribed fees online through the portal.
Step 5: Examination
Application is examined for completeness and compliance.
Step 6: Registration Certificate
If no objection is received, certificate is issued.
Copyright Registration Fees
| Type of Work | Fee |
|---|---|
| Literary/Dramatic/Musical Work | Rs. 500 |
| Artistic Work | Rs. 500 |
| Sound Recording | Rs. 2,000 |
| Cinematographic Film | Rs. 5,000 |
| Computer Software | Rs. 500 |
Professional Fees (LegalX India): Rs. 2,999 - Rs. 9,999
Duration of Copyright Protection
| Type of Work | Duration |
|---|---|
| Literary, Dramatic, Musical, Artistic | Lifetime + 60 years |
| Anonymous/Pseudonymous | 60 years from publication |
| Government Works | 60 years from publication |
| Sound Recordings | 60 years from publication |
| Cinematographic Films | 60 years from publication |
Rights of Copyright Owner
- Reproduction Right: Right to make copies
- Distribution Right: Right to sell, rent, lease copies
- Public Performance: Right to perform publicly
- Display Right: Right to display publicly
- Derivative Works: Right to create adaptations
- Broadcasting: Right to broadcast the work
Copyright Infringement
Copyright infringement occurs when someone uses your work without permission. Remedies include:
- Injunction to stop infringement
- Damages and account of profits
- Delivery of infringing copies
- Criminal prosecution (imprisonment up to 3 years)
Why Choose LegalX India?
- Expert IP Attorneys: Specialized in copyright law
- Fast Processing: Quick registration assistance
- End-to-End Support: From application to certificate
- Infringement Support: Help with enforcement
Protect Your Creative Work Today
Register your copyright with expert assistance.
Register Now - Starting at Rs. 2,999Written by
Adv. Sneha Reddy
Intellectual Property Attorney with expertise in trademark, copyright, and patent law.