Copyright Registration
File Today At ₹3,500 Plus Government Fees
- Best Copyright Registration Services In India
- Online, Quick And Hassle Free Process
- Copyright Application Filing Within 24 Hours
- Free Professional Consultancy
- Copyright Filing By Experts
- Decade Of Experience In Copyright Registration Services
What is Copyright
Copyright is a legal right granted to the creator of original work, including literary, artistic, musical, dramatic, cinematographic and sound recordings, as well as software and architectural designs. It provides the creator with exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform and adapt their work.
The primary objective of copyright is to promote creativity by giving creators control over their work while ensuring that society benefits from their contributions. In India, copyright protection is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957, as amended over the years. The Copyright Act, 1957, protects various forms of creative expression, ensuring that creators receive recognition and financial benefits from their work.
What is Copyright Registration
Copyright registration in India plays a vital role in safeguarding the intellectual property of creators. Whether you are an artist, writer, musician, filmmaker, or software developer, understanding the nuances of copyright law can help you protect your creative work from unauthorized use or reproduction.
Copyright registration is the process of officially recording ownership of a creative work with the Copyright Office of India. While copyright protection exists automatically upon creation, registration provides legal proof of ownership and strengthens the creator’s rights in case of disputes or infringement. The process involves submitting an application, paying the required fee, and undergoing examination before receiving a copyright certificate.
Who Can Apply For Copyright Registration
The Author or Creator
The Owner or Copyright Holder
Legal Heirs
Publishing Companies
Associations or Organizations
Legal Representatives
Let Your Copyright Registration Journey Begin
Time Line Of A Copyright Application
Copyright Application Filing
The Copyright application is filed by the professional and the Artistic Work is submitted to the Department.
Copyright Application Examination
The copyright application is examined for completeness and compliance with the law. If any discrepancies are found, a notice is issued.
Copyright Objection
If objections are raised by third parties, the matter may proceed to a hearing before the Registrar of Copyrights.
Copyright Registration
Once all objections (if any) are resolved and the application is approved, the Registrar issues the copyright registration certificate.
Copyright Registration Process
A Detailed Overview
Check Eligibility and Gather Documents
Before applying for copyright registration, ensure that your work qualifies for protection under the Copyright Act, 1957. Eligible works include literary, artistic, musical, dramatic, cinematographic and sound recordings. Once eligibility is confirmed, gather all necessary documents, including:
A clear and complete copy of the original work.
Personal details of the creator and applicant, including name, address and nationality.
Proof of ownership or assignment, such as an agreement or contract if the work is owned by someone other than the creator.
A no-objection certificate (NOC) from the author, if the applicant is not the original creator.
Fill Out the Application Form
Visit the Copyright Office of India website and download Form XIV, which is the standard application form for copyright registration. Carefully select the correct category of work—literary, artistic, musical, etc.—and provide all required details, including a clear description of the work. If multiple works need to be registered, separate applications must be submitted for each.
Pay the Registration Fee and Submit the Application
The registration fee varies depending on the type of work. For instance, the fee for literary works differs from that of cinematographic films or sound recordings. The payment can be made online through the official Copyright Office portal. Once the payment is completed, the fully filled application form along with supporting documents can be submitted either online or physically at the Copyright Office in New Delhi.
Receive a Diary Number and Application Examination
After submission, the applicant is issued a Diary Number, which serves as a reference for tracking the status of the application. The Copyright Office then conducts an examination to verify the completeness and accuracy of the application. If any discrepancies, missing information, or errors are found, the applicant is notified and required to provide clarifications or submit additional documents.
Objection Handling and Hearing Process
If a third party raises an objection to the copyright claim, the matter is forwarded to the Registrar of Copyrights for review. The applicant and the opposing party may be required to present their arguments and supporting documents in a hearing. The Registrar will then decide whether to grant or reject the copyright registration based on the evidence presented. If no objections are raised within the stipulated time, the application proceeds to approval.
Grant of Copyright Registration Certificate
Once all objections (if any) are resolved and the application is approved, the Registrar of Copyrights officially issues the Copyright Registration Certificate. This document serves as legal proof of ownership and strengthens the copyright holder’s rights, providing protection against infringement and unauthorized use.
The entire Copyright Registration process typically takes 6 to 8 months, provided there are no objections or complications. However, it may take longer if legal disputes arise.
Different Types Of Copyrights
Copyright law in India, governed by the Copyright Act, 1957, provides protection to a wide range of creative works. The law ensures that creators retain exclusive rights over their original work, preventing unauthorized reproduction or distribution. Below are the key categories of works that qualify for copyright protection in India:
Literary Works
This category includes a broad range of written content, such as books, manuscripts, articles, essays, journals, research papers, and compilations. In addition to traditional literary forms, it also covers computer software, source codes, databases, and technical manuals. The law ensures that authors and programmers retain ownership rights over their original compositions.
Dramatic Works
Any written or recorded performance intended for stage, screen or broadcast falls under dramatic works. This includes theatre scripts, screenplays, dialogues, adaptations and choreographic works. Even when a script is unpublished, it is still protected under copyright law as long as it is original and fixed in a tangible medium.
Musical Works
Copyright extends to original compositions and melodies, including notations, lyrics and sheet music. Whether a song is recorded or merely written in musical notation, it is protected. However, copyright for musical works does not extend to the performer’s rendition unless separately protected under performance rights.
Artistic Works
This category covers a wide variety of visual art, including paintings, drawings, sketches, sculptures, engravings and lithographs. Additionally, architectural designs, blueprints, maps, photographs and other graphic representations are eligible for protection. Even digital art, graphic design and illustrations are safeguarded under this category.
Cinematographic Films
Films, including feature films, short films, documentaries, animations and web series, are protected under copyright. The protection applies to the entire film as a creative work, covering its script, music, visual effects and sound recordings. The producer of the film is typically the copyright holder unless rights are assigned to another entity.
Sound Recordings
This category includes audio productions such as recorded songs, albums, instrumental tracks, audiobooks, radio programs and podcasts. The copyright for sound recordings protects both the original composition and the specific recorded version. However, sound recordings that contain copyrighted music or spoken content require proper licensing from the original copyright holders.
Performances
Performers, including singers, dancers, actors and musicians, have rights over their live or recorded performances. The Performers’ Rights provision ensures that artists can control the commercial use of their performances, preventing unauthorized recordings, broadcasts or reproductions. These rights exist for a period of 50 years from the date of the performance.
Content Not Eligible for Copyright Protection in India
While copyright law in India protects a wide range of creative works, certain types of content are explicitly excluded from copyright protection. The Copyright Act, 1957, specifies that protection is only granted to original expressions of ideas, not the ideas themselves. Below are key categories of works that do not qualify for copyright protection:
Ideas, Concepts and Methods – Copyright law does not protect raw ideas, theories, procedures, principles or methods of operation. For example, if an author develops an idea for a novel, the idea itself is not protected—only the written expression of that idea in the form of a book or script is eligible for copyright. Similarly, scientific principles, mathematical formulas and business strategies cannot be copyrighted, although they may be eligible for patent protection if they meet certain criteria.
Titles, Names, Slogans and Short Phrases – Individual words, names, book titles and advertising slogans do not qualify for copyright protection. For instance, the name of a movie, a brand tagline or a book title cannot be copyrighted, although they may be eligible for trademark protection under the Trade Marks Act, 1999 if they are distinctive and used commercially. Copyright law requires substantial creative expression, which short phrases or titles do not meet.
Official Government Publications and Documents – Government-issued documents, such as laws, judicial rulings, parliamentary debates, official notifications and public records, are not protected by copyright. These works are in the public domain, allowing citizens and organizations to access and use them freely. However, if a government publication includes original creative content, such as reports with significant analysis or artistic elements, specific portions may be eligible for copyright.
Facts, Public Domain Works and Common Knowledge – Factual information, historical events, scientific discoveries and common knowledge cannot be copyrighted. For example, the fact that “the Earth orbits the Sun” or “Mahatma Gandhi was born in 1869” cannot be owned by anyone. Additionally, works that have entered the public domain—either because their copyright term has expired or they were never eligible for protection—are freely available for public use. Classic literature, old paintings and expired patents often fall into this category.
Unoriginal or Functional Works – Copyright does not protect works that lack originality, such as standard calendars, measurement charts, telephone directories or forms designed for collecting information. These are considered functional tools rather than creative expressions. Similarly, software interfaces or layouts designed purely for usability may not be eligible for copyright but might be protected under design or patent laws.
By understanding what is and isn’t protected under copyright law, creators and businesses can ensure that they use intellectual property appropriately and explore other forms of protection, such as trademarks or patents, where applicable.
Why is Copyright Registration Important?
Although copyright protection is automatically granted as soon as an original work is created and fixed in a tangible form—such as a book, a recorded song or a film—registering your copyright provides additional legal and practical benefits. Copyright Registration strengthens the creator’s ability to assert and enforce their rights. Below are some key advantages of copyright registration:
Legal Proof of Ownership and Authorship – Copyright registration serves as prima facie evidence in a court of law, meaning that the registered copyright is presumed to be valid unless proven otherwise. This is particularly useful in cases of disputes over authorship or ownership, where the registration certificate acts as official proof that you created the work. Without registration, proving ownership can be more difficult, requiring additional evidence such as drafts, timestamps or third-party attestations.
Establishes a Public Record of Ownership – When a copyright is registered, it is officially recorded in the Copyright Office of India’s database, creating a public record of the work. This makes it easier for others—such as publishers, producers or businesses—to verify ownership before using or licensing the content. A public record also helps deter potential infringers, as they can easily identify the rightful owner before attempting to use the work unlawfully.
Simplifies Enforcement and Legal Action Against Infringement – While copyright owners can take legal action against infringement even without registration, having a registered copyright significantly strengthens the case. If someone uses a copyrighted work without permission, the owner can file a copyright infringement lawsuit and seek legal remedies such as an injunction (to stop further use), monetary compensation or statutory damages. Registration also allows the copyright holder to claim higher damages in court and facilitates a quicker resolution of disputes.
Enables Licensing and Commercial Benefits – Copyright registration simplifies licensing, assignments and transfers, making it easier to monetize creative works. For example, if an author wants to sell adaptation rights for a book to be made into a film, or a musician wants to license their song for commercial use, having a registered copyright provides legal clarity and protection in these agreements. Many businesses and organizations prefer working with registered copyrights to avoid ownership disputes.
Recognition Under International Treaties and Foreign Protection – Although copyright protection is generally national in scope, India is a member of international copyright treaties, such as the Berne Convention and the Universal Copyright Convention. This means that works registered in India may receive protection in other member countries, making it easier for Indian creators to safeguard their intellectual property abroad. While automatic protection exists under these treaties, formal registration can provide stronger legal standing in foreign jurisdictions when dealing with copyright violations.
Copyright Registration Government Fees In India
Literary, Dramatic, Musical or Artistic Work
₹500 per work/application
Cinematograph Film
₹5,000 per work/application
Sound Recording
₹2,000 per work/application
Validity of Copyright
The duration of copyright protection in India is determined by the type of work involved and, in some cases, whether the author’s identity is known. The Copyright Act, 1957 outlines specific timeframes for different categories of works. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand how long your rights—or someone else’s—are protected:
1. Literary, Dramatic, Musical, and Artistic Works – This includes novels, poems, plays, lyrics, musical compositions, paintings, drawings and other original artistic expressions.
- Duration: Copyright protection lasts for the entire lifetime of the author plus 60 years after their death.
- Example: If a novelist dies in 2020, the copyright on their book will remain valid until the end of 2080.
This extended protection benefits the author’s heirs or legal representatives, who can continue to earn royalties or enforce rights during that period.
2. Cinematographic Films and Sound Recordings – These include movies, documentaries, albums, podcasts and similar works involving visual or audio recordings.
- Duration: 60 years from the year the work was first published (i.e., released to the public).
- Example: If a film was released in 2010, its copyright will last until the end of 2070.
Unlike literary or artistic works, this protection is based on the date of publication, not the life of the creator.
3. Anonymous and Pseudonymous Works – When a work is released without revealing the author’s true name—either completely anonymous or under a pen name—the law provides a different rule.
- Duration: 60 years from the date the work was published.
- Example: If an anonymous article is published in 2005, the copyright remains in force until the end of 2065.
However, if the author’s identity becomes known before the end of the 60-year period, the protection may shift to follow the same rule as literary or artistic works—lifetime plus 60 years.
Key Note: In all cases, the 60-year period is calculated from the beginning of the calendar year following the year of death or publication. So the actual protection often extends slightly beyond the simple date difference.
Is Copyright Protection Automatic or Does It Require Registration?
Under the Copyright Act of 1957, copyright protection is automatically granted as soon as an original work is created and expressed in a tangible form—whether it’s written, recorded, filmed, or otherwise captured in a physical or digital medium. You do not need to apply or register to gain copyright; it exists by default from the moment the work is fixed.
However, while registration is not legally required, it is strongly advised. A registered copyright serves as official proof of ownership, which can be especially valuable if someone copies your work or if you need to take legal action. In court, a registration certificate strengthens your case and makes it easier to enforce your rights.
Overview Of Trademark Classes
Trademark classes, organized under the Nice Classification system, serve as a blueprint for categorizing goods and services. This classification system, spanning from Class 1 to Class 45, facilitates a streamlined registration process. Let’s delve into the significance of these classes and how their meticulous selection can fortify your brand’s intellectual property protection.
Goods Classes (Class 1-34):
- Class 1 – Chemicals: From industrial chemicals to agricultural products, Class 1 accommodates a diverse range. If your business deals in chemicals, this is where your trademark belongs.
- Class 9 – Electrical and Scientific Apparatus: For those in the tech and electronics realm, Class 9 is your playground. This class covers everything from smartphones to semiconductors.
- Class 25 – Clothing: Fashion brands find their home in Class 25. Whether it’s haute couture or casual wear, accurate classification here is essential.
Services Classes (Class 35-45):
- Class 35 – Advertising and Business: Marketing mavens and entrepreneurs operating in the advertising domain fall under Class 35. Your brand’s identity is safeguarded here.
- Class 41 – Education and Entertainment: If your business involves educational services or entertainment, Class 41 is your stage. Universities, theaters, and online education platforms take note.
- Class 45 – Personal and Social Services: From legal services to security, Class 45 houses businesses that provide personal and social services. This includes law firms, detective agencies, and more.
Choosing the right trademark class ensures that your brand is shielded against potential infringements within your specific industry. It’s like a tailor-made suit for your intellectual property. Incorrect classification may lead to the rejection of your trademark application. Avoid setbacks by aligning your goods or services with the most accurate class.
The experts at My Trademark Guide simplify the process of choosing the right class for your trademark application filing. By conducting a thorough analysis of your business activities and industry, we ensure accurate classification, maximizing the chances of successful registration. Trust us to guide you through the complexities of trademark classes, ensuring your intellectual property is properly protected.
Why Choose Us
At My Trademark Guide, we understand the significance of safeguarding your brand identity in today’s competitive business landscape. As a leading provider of trademark registration and brand registration services in India, we take pride in offering comprehensive and seamless solutions to protect your intellectual property. Here’s why choosing us is the smart and strategic decision for your trademark registration needs:
Expertise and Experience
Comprehensive Guidance
Proactive Approach
Transparent Communication
Cost-Effective Solutions
Timely Execution
How We Work
Contact Us
Trademark Application Filing
Trademark Registration
Service Area: We provide services for Trademark Registration in Delhi, Trademark Registration in Mumbai, Trademark Registration in Chennai, Trademark Registration in Hyderabad, Trademark Registration in Jaipur, Trademark Registration in Bangalore, Trademark Registration in Coimbatore, Trademark Registration in Ahmedabad, Trademark Registration in Kolkata, Trademark Registration in Pune, Trademark Registration in Indore, Trademark Registration in Surat, Trademark Registration in Hyderabad, Trademark Registration in Kerala, Trademark Registration in Noida, Trademark Registration in Lucknow, Trademark Registration in Solan, Trademark Registration in Gurgaon, Trademark Registration in Faridabad, Trademark Registration in Assam, Trademark Registration in Uttarakhand, Trademark Registration in Jammu, Trademark Registration in Goa, Trademark Registration in entire India.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
A trademark is a unique symbol, logo, name, or any combination thereof, used to distinguish goods or services of one business from another. It helps in building brand identity and protecting intellectual property.
You can conduct a comprehensive search on the official website of the Trademark Registry in India or seek professional assistance from us to ensure your trademark is unique and available for filing.
In India, words, logos, symbols, numerals, and even distinctive shapes, colors, and sounds can be registered as trademarks.
The trademark registration in India takes around 6 months to 2 years. The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and any potential objections.
Once registered, a trademark is valid for ten years. It can be renewed indefinitely in subsequent ten-year periods by paying the renewal fees.
Yes, foreign entities or individuals can register a trademark in India. They need to follow the same registration process as Indian applicants, but it is advisable to seek legal guidance for a smoother process.
Yes, the trademark application can be filed online through the official website of the Trademark Registry. You can also engage the services of a Registered Trademark Agent or Attorney for filing the trademark application.
If someone infringes on your registered trademark, you have the legal right to take legal action. This may include sending a cease-and-desist letter, filing a lawsuit, and seeking damages for any harm caused to your brand.