Software copyright registration in India
Source code is protected as a literary work. Registration gives proof of ownership and date.
Quick answer
Software is protected as a literary work under the Copyright Act. You can register an app, a website’s code or a program on Form XIV. Copyright protects the code and its expression, not the underlying idea or function.
What is protected
- Source code and object code.
- Documentation, design documents and database structure that qualify as original works.
- Not protected: the idea, algorithm as such, or a functional method. For a technical invention, see patents.
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.
What to prepare
- Title and description of the software, version and language.
- Developer and owner details, and a declaration of ownership. If employees or contractors wrote it, keep the assignment documents.
- The first and last 10 pages of source code, or the amount the portal asks for. Confidential code can be masked as allowed.
Process and fees
The process is the same as for other works: file Form XIV, a 30-day wait, scrutiny, certificate. The fee is covered on copyright fees. Confirm the software fee on copyright.gov.in, since providers quote different amounts.
Protect more than the code
Use trademark registration for the app name and logo, and NDAs for unreleased code. See trade secrets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I copyright an app idea?
No. Copyright protects the code and expression, not the idea.
Do I own code written by freelancers?
Not automatically. Get a written assignment from them.
Do I need to reveal my full source code?
The portal usually asks for part of it, and confidential portions can be masked as the rules allow.
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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.
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