Necessity of Registration:
A Copyright is granted automatically upon the creation of your idea. For example, if you’re a photographer and take a photo - you are automatically granted a Copyright for your creation and are able to use the © logo to protect it. However, registering your Copyright grants you stronger legal protection should someone copy or infringe on your creation. Take a look at our benefits of registering Copyright section to help assess whether it is necessary for you to register.
Use the pre-application checklist linked below or read through the outline here to understand the steps you should take before moving into the application process.
Please note, this checklist is not exhaustive and doesn't replace advice from IP experts.
01. Get Support From a Legal Representative:
Understanding all the details within the application process of obtaining a Copyright recordal can be confusing. We’d recommend seeking legal advice to help you in assessing which of your works (if any) it is recommended to obtain a recordal for, preparing your application and supporting you through the process.
List of Legal Representatives
02. Original Work Representation:
Prepare a tangible representation of your work, whether it's a manuscript, recording, or visual depiction, to submit with the application.
03. Proof of Ownership:
If applicable, gather documentation establishing ownership, such as assignment agreements, licenses, other forms of proof of authorship and details of date of origin of the work. For joint works, ensure accurate details are provided for all authors, and establish clarity on ownership shares.
04. Publication Details (if applicable):
Although it's not mandatory by the MoEc, if the work has been published, provide accurate details about the publication date and any related information.
05. Look Through the Application Form:
Look through the MoEc forms for your Copyright application to be confident that you have all the information and documents you need.
Follow the link below to get a full list of the documents and information required to file a Copyright recordal. Having all of this information prepared before starting the application is important to ensure the process is as smooth as possible.
Note: All documents should be submitted in both Arabic and English. However, Arabic translations can be filed up to 90 days after the initial submission in English.
Below you will find the steps, timeframes, and costs involved in applying for a Copyright. The process is divided into three phases: pre-application, application, and post application.
The time and expenses for each phase may vary depending on the complexity of your idea, the quality of your application, and the level of support you choose.
