Copyright registration is a law that protects the work of a creator by giving them the special right to control how their work is used.
This fundamental concept applies to many types of creators, including writers, artists, musicians, business owners, and creators of digital content.
You would not want something like your book, song, design, video, or any other work to go to waste; that is why copyright registration is crucial. It protects your work and provides legal rights.
In this blog, we will share all the details related to copyright registration in Guwahati, along with associated services like copyright renewal, opposition, assignment, and hearing.
What is Copyright?
Copyright is the legal procedure that protects work from being copied or taken without the original person’s permission.
The Copyright Act was presented in 1957 as The ‘Copyright Act, 1957” by Indian Parliament.
Copyright remains for the author’s lifetime and continues for 60 years after that.
What Kinds of Work Can Be Copyrighted?
Copyright protects original work made by a person that is recorded in some way, like written down, drawn, or filmed. Here are the main types of work that can be protected:
- Books and stories – like novels, poems, or articles.
- Songs – both the music and the lyrics.
- Movies and videos – including short films, documentaries, and animations.
- Photos and images – pictures you take or create.
- Paintings and drawings – including digital art.
- Computer programs – software and apps.
- Plays and scripts – anything written for stage or screen.
- Dance routines – if they are written down or recorded.
- Websites and blogs – the content, not the domain name.
- Speeches – if they are written or recorded.
Copyright Registration Services Process in Guwahati, India
There are two ways to register a copyright in Guwahati or anywhere in India.
The first suggestion I would make is to take help from professionals like Regible Corporate Advisor LLP, who are experts in copyright registration in Guwahati.
But if you think you can do it by yourself then the second option is for you to register through the Copyright Office website and proceed with online copyright registration.
Here are the steps you can follow to complete the registration:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official Copyright Office website: copyright.gov.in
- If you are a new user, click on “New User Registration” to create your user ID and password to proceed with further process.
- Save your login details carefully for future use.
Step 2: Filing the Application
- After logging in, click on “e-filing of Applications”.
- Choose the type of work (literary, artistic, musical, software, etc.).
- Fill Form XIV with details about your work and yourself.
- Upload a soft copy of your work and any required documents.
- Pay the required fee online.
Step 3: Get the Diary Number
- Once you submit the application, you will get a Diary Number.
- This number is your reference for tracking the application status.
Step 4: Wait for the 30-Day Objection Period
- The Copyright Office will keep your application open for 30 days.
- If no one objects, the application moves ahead.
- If someone raises an objection, a hearing will be arranged.
Step 5: Examination and Grant of Certificate
- After 30 days, the Copyright Office examines your work.
- If everything is fine, they will approve your application.
- You will receive a Copyright Registration Certificate online.
Copyright Management and Protection
This involves maintaining, renewing, transferring, and defending the rights of copyrighted works.
Copyright Renewal
Copyright protection lasts for many years, but in some cases, it needs renewal — especially for music or sound recordings.
If your copyright is about to expire, apply for Copyright Renewal in Assam to keep your rights safe. Missing the renewal can lead to loss of ownership.
Copyright Opposition
Sometimes, two people claim the same content. If someone files a copyright for something you made first, you can raise a Copyright Opposition.
To do this, submit an objection with proof of your original work. If you are in India and need help, legal experts in Guwahati can guide you with the process.
Copyright Assignment
Copyright assignment is the process of giving the ownership of a copyrighted work from one person to another.
This means the new owner gains the full rights to use, distribute, and change the work as he likes, and the original owner no longer holds those rights.
Copyright Hearing
When there is a dispute or opposition during copyright registration, a Copyright Hearing is held. Both parties get a chance to explain their claims.
During the hearing, you must show documents and reasons to support your case, as a strong case can help you win.
Complete Breakdown of Copyright Registration Fees in India
Here’s a complete breakdown of the copyright registration fees in India (latest for 2025) in a simple table format:
| Type of Work | Registration Fee (₹) |
| Literary, Dramatic, Musical, Artistic Work (other than computer programs) | ₹500 |
| Literary Work (Computer Programs/Software) | ₹5,000 |
| Cinematograph Film | ₹5,000 |
| Sound Recording | ₹2,000 |
| Artistic Work used as part of Goods/Packaging (like logos, labels, etc.) | ₹2,000 |
| Literary or Artistic Work (used in a logo or trademark) | ₹2,000 |
| Software/Computer Programs with Source Code and Object Code (if both submitted) | ₹10,000 |
| Broadcasting (TV/Radio) related Work | ₹40,000 |
| License/Assignment of Copyright (for each work) | ₹2,000 |
| Change in particulars of registration (correction or updating) | ₹2,000 |
Important Note:
- The fee is per work.
- Payment is done online at the time of application.
- Government may revise the fees slightly year-to-year, so it’s good to double-check right before filing.
Final Thoughts
By following this blog, you will get an overview of how you can handle Copyright Registration, Renewal, Opposition, Assignment, and Hearings. Regible Corporate Advisor LLP is here to assist you with these processes to secure your creative work and help you grow.
Faqs:
1. What is the Fee for Copyright Registration in India?
The fee depends on the type of work. For example, ₹500 for literary works, ₹5,000 for software, and ₹2,000 for sound recordings. Different categories have different charges.
2. What Documents Are Required for Copyright Registration?
You will need:
- A copy of the work (manuscript, recording, software, etc.)
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from publisher/author if applicable
- ID and address proof of the applicant
- Power of Attorney (if filed through an agent)
3. What Are the Benefits of Copyright Registration?
- Legal protection for your original work
- Strong evidence in case of infringement
- Helps in commercializing or licensing your work
- Builds brand value and ownership rights
- Enables you to claim damages in legal disputes
4. What Happens if I Don’t Register My Copyright?
Even without registration, you have basic rights once you create the work. However, without registration, it becomes difficult to prove ownership legally and to enforce your rights easily in court.
5. How Long Does It Take to Get Copyright Registered Legally?
It usually takes 3 to 6 months if there are no objections or complications during the examination process.
