Copyright Registration in India: What You Can Protect & How

What Is Copyright?

Copyright is a form of intellectual property right that protects original creative works — giving the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, and adapt their work. In India, copyright is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957.

Importantly, copyright in India arises automatically upon creation of an original work — no registration is needed for the right to exist. However, registration creates a public record and is crucial evidence of ownership in case of infringement disputes.

What Can Be Protected Under Copyright?

• Literary works — books, articles, blog posts, code, scripts, databases
• Artistic works — paintings, drawings, photographs, architecture, maps
• Musical works — compositions (separate from sound recording)
• Dramatic works — plays, screenplays, choreography
• Cinematograph films — movies, video content
• Sound recordings — recorded audio (separate from musical composition)
• Computer programs and software

What Cannot Be Protected

• Ideas, concepts, facts, and data (only expression is protected, not the underlying idea)
• Names, titles, slogans (these may qualify for trademark protection instead)
• Government works (not protected)

Duration of Copyright Protection

Why Register If Copyright Is Automatic?

1. Legal evidence: The copyright register is prima facie evidence of the facts recorded — it shifts the burden of proof to the infringer
2. Public notice: Puts the world on notice that the work is protected
3. Licensing and assignment: Registered works are easier to license commercially
4. Customs recordation: Registered works can be recorded with Customs to stop import of infringing copies
5. Litigation advantage: Courts are more likely to grant injunctions quickly for registered works

Copyright Registration Process in India

1. Prepare the application: Form XIV, statement of particulars, and two copies of the work
2. File on the Copyright Office portal (copyright.gov.in) or physically at the Copyright Office, New Delhi
3. Diary number issued immediately on filing
4. Mandatory wait period: 30 days for third-party objections
5. Examination: If no objection, the examiner reviews the application
6. Certificate issued: Typically within 2–6 months from filing

Government Fees

Copyright vs. Trademark — What's the Difference?

Many businesses need both — copyright for their creative content and trademark for their brand identity. Our IP team can advise you on the right combination for your business.