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Copyright

Copyright Registration in India - An overview

Copyright registration in India provides legal protection to the creators of original literary, artistic, dramatic, and musical works. Here is an overview of the copyright registration process in India:

  • Eligibility: Any work that is original and falls within the categories eligible for copyright protection, such as literary works, artistic works, computer programs, films, sound recordings, etc., can be registered for copyright.
  • Application: To register a copyright, the applicant needs to fill out the appropriate application form (Form XIV for literary, dramatic, or musical works, or Form XIV for artistic works) available on the official website of the Copyright Office, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • Supporting Documents: The application must be accompanied by the following documents:
  • A copy of the work being registered (in the case of unpublished works, a copy of the manuscript or script is required)
  • No-objection certificate from the author, if the applicant is different from the author
  • Power of Attorney, if the application is filed by an attorney on behalf of the applicant
  • Prescribed fee payment receipt

  • Submission: The completed application, along with the required documents, should be submitted to the Copyright Office either physically or through the online copyright registration portal.
  • Examination: The Copyright Office examines the application to ensure completeness and compliance with the requirements. If any discrepancies or deficiencies are identified, the applicant may be asked to rectify them within a specified period.
  • Registration: Upon satisfactory examination, the Copyright Office will issue a registration certificate, confirming the copyright protection for the work. The registration date is the date of receipt of the application.
  • Copyright Term: The term of copyright protection varies depending on the nature of the work. For literary, dramatic, musical, or artistic works, the duration of copyright protection is the lifetime of the author plus 60 years from the year following the author's death. In the case of anonymous or pseudonymous works, cinematographic works, photographs, and sound recordings, the duration is 60 years from the year of publication.

While copyright registration is not mandatory for obtaining copyright protection in India, it is highly recommended as it serves as prima facie evidence in court disputes and facilitates the enforcement of copyright. Registration provides additional legal benefits, including the right to claim statutory damages and the ability to license or transfer the copyright



  • Detailed Process
  • Copyright Discrepancy
  • Documents Required
  • Registration Process
  • FAQ

When filing a copyright application in India, the following information and documents are typically required:


  • Application Form: The applicant needs to fill out the appropriate copyright application form. Form XIV is used for literary, dramatic, or musical works, while Form XIV is used for artistic works. These forms can be obtained from the official website of the Copyright Office.
  • Work Details: The application should include detailed information about the work, such as its title, nature, language, and whether it is published or unpublished.
  • Authorship Details: Provide the name, address, and nationality of the author or creator of the work. If the work is a collaboration, the information of all the authors involved should be provided.
  • Ownership Details: Specify the ownership details, including the name, address, and nationality of the copyright owner. If the copyright is owned by someone other than the author, include the relationship between the author and the copyright owner.
  • Description of the Work: Provide a brief description or summary of the work, highlighting its key features, themes, or unique elements.
  • Publication Details: If the work has been published, provide the date and country of first publication. Include information about any previous registrations or licenses related to the work.
  • Supporting Materials: Depending on the type of work, supporting materials may be required, such as:
  • Literary, Dramatic, or Musical Works: Submit a copy of the manuscript, script, or sheet music, as applicable.
  • Artistic Works: Include a copy or reproduction of the artistic work, such as a photograph or printout.
  • Cinematographic Works: Provide a copy of the film or documentary, along with a synopsis and details of the film's duration and format.
  • Sound Recordings: Submit a copy of the sound recording in the required format.

  • 8. Fee Payment: The copyright application must be accompanied by the prescribed fee. The fee amount may vary depending on the type of work and the mode of filing (online or physical).
Personal Details

  • Name, Address & Nationality of the Applicant
  • Name, address and nationality of the author of the work
  • Nature of the applicant’s interest in the copyright - whether the applicant is the author of the work or the representative of the author
  • Copies of the original work
  • ID proof of the owner and Incorporation certificate if it is for business
Nature Of The Work

  • Class & Description of the Work
  • Title of the Work
  • Language of the Work
  • Date of Publication - Publication in internal magazines, like a company magazine or a research paper submitted to a professor does not count as publication.
3 Working Days

Our representatives will request for basic required information regarding the work to be copyrighted. Additionally, we will require you to provide three copies of your unique content on a CD or via email and send us a signed authorization letter, which we will provide to you via mail.


2 Working Days

Our experts will then prepare the application. We will file the necessary forms with the Registrar of Copyrights electronically (physically if necessary) at the office in Delhi.


6-8 Months

Once the copyright application filing process is completed, you will be issued a diary number as confirmation. The registration process typically takes around 6 to 8 months from this day, assuming there are no discrepancies or objections raised by third parties. However, it is important to note that the timeline may vary based on the workload and procedures of the Copyright Office.

During the examination of your application, the registrar may identify discrepancies or require additional information or documents to be submitted. In such cases, our representatives will notify you and guide you in providing the necessary details to make a suitable reply and address any concerns raised by the registrar.

Throughout the copyright registration process, our representatives will keep you informed about any changes in the status of your application. We will provide regular updates on the progress of your application, ensuring that you are kept informed at every stage until the registration is successfully completed.

Copyright registration is the process of legally protecting original literary, artistic, dramatic, and musical works by obtaining a copyright certificate. It provides evidence of ownership and grants exclusive rights to the creator over their work.

No, copyright registration is not mandatory in India. Copyright protection is automatically granted to original works upon creation. However, registering your copyright provides additional legal benefits, such as prima facie evidence in court and the ability to claim statutory damages.

To apply for copyright registration in India, you need to complete the appropriate application form (Form XIV for literary, dramatic, or musical works, or Form XIV for artistic works), submit the required documents and fee, and file the application with the Copyright Office either physically or through the online copyright registration portal.

The documents required for copyright registration in India include:

  • Application form (Form XIV or Form XIV)
  • Copy of the work being registered
  • No-objection certificate from the author (if applicable)
  • Power of Attorney (if filed by an attorney)
  • Fee payment receipt

The copyright registration process typically takes around 6 to 8 months in India, assuming there are no discrepancies or third-party objections. However, the exact timeframe may vary depending on the workload and procedures of the Copyright Office.

After submitting the copyright application, you will receive a diary number as confirmation of filing. The Copyright Office will examine the application for completeness and compliance. If any discrepancies are found, you may be asked to provide additional information or documents.

Yes, you can track the status of your copyright application in India. The Copyright Office provides an online portal where you can check the progress of your application by entering the diary number or application number.

In India, the duration of copyright protection varies depending on the nature of the work. For literary, dramatic, musical, or artistic works, the duration is the lifetime of the author plus 60 years from the year following the author's death. For anonymous or pseudonymous works, cinematographic works, photographs, and sound recordings, the duration is 60 years from the year of publication.

Copyright registration covers the specific version of your work as submitted during the application process. Substantial changes to the work may require a separate registration. Minor changes, however, may be covered under the original registration.

No, copyright registration in India does not require renewal. Once copyright is obtained, it remains valid for the duration specified by the law. It is important to note that the above FAQs provide general information and guidance. For specific queries or legal advice regarding copyright registration in India, it is advisable to consult with a qualified intellectual property attorney or refer to the official website of the Copyright Office.

Yes, you can register multiple works under a single copyright application in India if they belong to the same class of works and are created by the same author or co-authors. However, separate application fees may be applicable for each work.

No, copyright protection is granted to works that are already created and fixed in a tangible form. The work should be complete or sufficiently developed to be eligible for copyright registration.

Yes, copyright protection in India extends to both published and unpublished works. You can register the copyright for your unpublished work to secure your rights and provide evidence of ownership.

The Copyright Office in India is responsible for processing copyright applications, conducting examinations, and issuing copyright certificates. They review the application for completeness and compliance with the copyright law before granting copyright registration.

Yes, you can register a copyright for a work that has already been published. However, it is recommended to register the copyright as soon as possible after publication to avail the benefits of statutory damages and other legal advantages.

Copyright protects original creative works, such as books, music, and artwork, while trademarks protect distinctive signs, symbols, or logos that distinguish goods or services. Copyright protects the expression of an idea, while a trademark protects the brand identity or source of goods or services.

Yes, copyright can be transferred or assigned to another person or entity through a legal agreement. The transfer should be in writing and signed by the copyright owner or their authorized representative.

Copyright protection is territorial, which means that copyright registered in India provides protection within the boundaries of India. To seek protection in other countries, you need to consider international copyright treaties, such as the Berne Convention or the Universal Copyright Convention.

If you discover copyright infringement, it is advisable to consult with an intellectual property attorney. They can guide you on sending cease-and-desist letters, initiating legal action, or seeking remedies for the infringement.

Yes, you can use the copyright symbol (©) even without copyright registration. It serves as a notice to others that your work is protected by copyright. However, it is recommended to obtain copyright registration for additional legal benefits.