1. 🚀 Introduction
In today’s digital world, software is one of the most valuable assets. From mobile apps to desktop platforms and SaaS tools, protecting your code ensures your intellectual property stays yours.
Under the Copyright Act, 1957, computer software is categorized as a “literary work”, and the creator holds exclusive rights once registered.
🛡️ Copyrighting your software = Legal Protection + Market Advantage
2. 🧾 Types of Licenses Offered
When you copyright a software in India, you’re legally securing rights like:
- 📥 Right to reproduce the code
- 🌐 Right to distribute copies
- 🧠 Right to license or sell
- 💼 Right to modify or upgrade the source
📌 Note: This copyright covers source code, object code, design documents, user interfaces, and sometimes technical documentation.
3. 🧑💼 Who Needs These Services?
This copyright is essential for:
- App Developers
- Software Startups
- Freelance Coders
- Web Developers
- SaaS Platforms
- Game Developers
- IT Services Companies
- AI Tool Creators
🎯 Example: A Bengaluru-based AI company copyrighted their software to stop a reseller from cloning their features into a similar app.
4. 🏢 Why Choose a License Registration Service Provider?
DIY copyright filing is possible, but service providers help you:
- File under correct “literary work” category
- Draft a clear statement of originality
- Add supporting tech specs
- Handle objections professionally
- Track application through every stage
🛠️ With expert help, you avoid costly rejections and processing delays.
5. 📋 Registration Process
Follow these steps to copyright your software:
- Visit: https://copyright.gov.in
- Register/Login as a new user
- Select “Literary Work” as category
- Fill Form XIV & Statement of Particulars
- Upload Source Code (minimum 10 pages)
- Add technical write-up or project documentation
- Pay Govt Fee (₹500 for literary works)
- Wait 30 days for objection period
- If no objection, receive digital copyright certificate
📌 Keep code snippets confidential — watermark your source pages for safety.
6. 📄 Required Documents
- PAN/Aadhar of Applicant
- Copy of 10–15 pages of Source Code (print/PDF)
- Software Architecture Diagram (optional but recommended)
- Tech Description or User Manual (if any)
- Declaration of Ownership
- NOC from Co-authors/Employers (if applicable)
💡 Format code in readable structure with function headers, comments, or version logs.
7. 💸 Cost Involved
| Component | Fee (INR) |
| Government Fee | ₹500 |
| Professional Charges | ₹1,500–₹4,000 |
| Optional Legal Drafting | ₹2,000–₹3,000 |
Cost-effective for startups compared to the potential loss from software piracy.
8. ⏳ Time Taken
- 📅 Objection Period: 30 days
- ✅ Approval Processing: 15–25 days
- 📄 Certificate Issuance: Around 45–60 days total
⏱️ Fast-track applications not available—plan ahead for launches.
9. ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading full source code online (security risk)
- Choosing the wrong category (e.g. Artistic or Cinematographic)
- Ignoring co-developer NOCs
- Using open-source code without disclaimers
- Forgetting to watermark sensitive pages
🚫 Do not copy-paste GitHub code — originality is crucial.
10. 📞 Call-to-Action (CTA)
Need help with your software copyright?
📧 Email: opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📲 WhatsApp: +91 7588756518
🌐 Visit: https://www.opriyatrending.in
We handle all legal filings, technical documentation, and status tracking!
11. ❓ FAQs
Q1. Can I copyright software without publishing it?
✅ Yes, the law allows copyright protection even before commercial release.
Q2. Is source code submission secure?
Yes, only limited pages are required, and watermarking is allowed.
Q3. Can I copyright software created by a team?
Yes, but include NOC or joint declaration from co-creators or company.
Q4. Should I also register a patent or trademark?
Trademark protects your brand name/UI, while patent protects unique algorithmic processes. Copyright covers code only.
Q5. What happens if someone copies my code?
You can send a legal notice and initiate a copyright infringement lawsuit with your certificate as proof.
