Copyright assignment and licence in India
You can sell or license your copyright, but it must be in writing and cover the key terms.
Quick answer
An assignment transfers ownership, and a licence lets someone use the work while you keep ownership. Both must be in writing and signed. Terms on duration, territory and royalty matter, because the Copyright Act has default rules if they are missing.
Assignment vs licence
| Assignment | Licence | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Moves to the buyer | Stays with you |
| Form | Written, signed | Written, signed |
| Typical use | Sale of a work | Permission to use for a fee or royalty |
| Duration | Should be stated | Should be stated |
Last checked: 12 November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change, so confirm on the official site before you file.
Terms to include
- The work and the rights covered.
- Duration and territory. Where the period is not stated, the Act treats it as five years, and where territory is not stated, as India. Check Sections 18 and 19 for the details.
- Royalty or payment and when it is due.
- What happens if the assignee does not use the rights.
- Termination and dispute resolution.
Related
For a brand, see trademark licence agreements. Registration helps prove your ownership first: copyright registration.
Frequently asked questions
Can an assignment be oral?
No. It must be in writing and signed by the assignor.
Can I license the same work to many people?
Yes, with a non-exclusive licence. An exclusive licence stops that.
Do I need to register the agreement?
Registration of copyright is optional, but a clear written agreement is essential.
Why clients trust Trademark Wale
5.0 out of 5 on Google from 136 reviews (as of 12 November 2026). Read all reviews on Google.
“Quick, smooth and hassle-free.”
Bhushan Pawar, Google review, 2 months ago
“Professional, responsive and gave clear guidance.”
Chaturvedi Prashant, Google review, 2 months ago
“Work was done within 24 hours.”
Yardan Amrohi, Google review, 3 months ago
“Patient with every query.”
Nikhil Kadam, Google review, a year ago
Written by: Trademark Wale editorial team, with over 40 years of experience in trademark and IP work, serving 7000+ brands. Last updated: 12 November 2026.
Sources: Copyright Office, Government of India, Copyright Act 1957 and Copyright Rules 2013. Confirm current fees on the official site.
Want your work registered?
Tell us what you created and we will file the right application for you.
Talk to us on WhatsApp