Copyright Registration
Copyright is a legal right that protects the original works of authorship — such as literary, artistic, musical, and dramatic works. It gives the creator exclusive rights to use, reproduce, distribute, perform, display, or license their work, and to stop others from doing so without permission. In India, copyright protection automatically exists from the moment the work is created and fixed in a tangible form — but registering it provides stronger legal evidence and makes enforcement easier.
Advantages of Copyright Registration
Documents Required For Copyright Registration.
5. Track the Application Status
After submission, you’ll receive an Acknowledgement Number.
Track your renewal status online through the Trademark E-Register on the IP India portal.
6. Get the Updated Renewal Certificate
If the Registrar finds everything in order, the trademark is renewed for another 10 years.
Download or request the updated Renewal Certificate for your records.
Trademark Renewal Procedure (Online)
1. Prepare the Required Documents
Copy of the original Trademark Registration Certificate.
Details of the trademark (registration number, class, proprietor’s name & address).
Power of Attorney (Form TM-48) if you are using an agent or attorney.
2. Choose the Correct Form
File Form TM-R for standard renewal before expiry.
File Form TM-R with surcharge if renewing within 6 months after expiry.
File Form TM-R with restoration & surcharge if applying within 1 year after expiry.
3. Pay the Renewal Fee Online
Pay the applicable renewal fee and surcharge (if any) via the official IP India online portal.
4. Submit the Renewal Application Online
Visit the IP India e-filing portal: https://ipindia.gov.in
Log in with your credentials (or register if you are a new user).
Upload the completed Form TM-R and supporting documents.
Attach the fee receipt and submit the application.
5. Track the Application Status
After submission, you’ll receive an Acknowledgement Number.
Track your renewal status online through the Trademark E-Register on the IP India portal.
6. Get the Updated Renewal Certificate
If the Registrar finds everything in order, the trademark is renewed for another 10 years.
Download or request the updated Renewal Certificate for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get copyright protection?
Copyright exists automatically from the moment you create and fix your work in a tangible form (like writing, recording, filming, or saving).
Is copyright registration mandatory?
No — it’s not mandatory in India. But registration is highly recommended because it provides strong legal proof of ownership and makes enforcement easier.
What works can be protected by copyright?
Literary works (books, scripts, poems), musical works, sound recordings, films, paintings, photographs, architectural works, software code, and more.
How long does copyright protection last?
In India, for literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, copyright lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 60 years after their death.
How do I register my copyright in India?
You must file an application (Form IV) with the Copyright Office, pay the required fee, and submit supporting documents. After scrutiny and no objections, the Registrar issues the Copyright Registration Certificate.
What if someone infringes my copyright?
You can send a legal notice, file a civil lawsuit for injunction and damages, or pursue criminal action depending on the situation.