Copyright registration for a computer program

Computer programs (software) are one of the most complex objects in the field of legal regulation and protection of intellectual property. In Ukraine, as in most countries of the world, it is not possible to obtain a patent for software, but it is possible to register a copyright for software, although this is not mandatory.

Copyright in software is protected by law as the right to a literary work. It applies to the code, but not to the functional content of the program. In fact, copyright arises from the moment the product is created, fixed on a material medium, and it does not need to be registered at all. However, modern realities are such that registration of copyright in software will not be superfluous in certain cases, especially if the product or rights to it are planned to be sold, it is necessary to protect your rights to it, etc.

A registered intellectual property right provides its owner with the following benefits:

• The ability to use the copyright to the program in order to make a profit from its use or sale
• The right to allow other persons to use the product or prohibit unauthorized use

Who can own a copyright for a computer program

• An individual
• A group of individuals (co-authors)
• Legal entity, if the product was created by the company's employees within the framework of their official duties and for the employer

How to register your copyright in a program

To register a copyright, an application is filed with the State Intellectual Property Service. In addition to the application, a package of documents is prepared:

• A copy of the product in tangible or intangible form
• A document certifying the fact and date of creation of the product
• A power of attorney
• Software manual
• A document confirming the payment of the state duty
• Documents on the transfer of property rights by inheritance (if the copyright is registered by the author's heir), etc.

In addition, the name of the program is determined. The decision on copyright registration is made by the State Intellectual Property Service within a month - if all documents are prepared and executed correctly, it takes about another month to issue a certificate.

To ensure that all documents are properly executed and the registration procedure is completed as quickly as possible, we recommend ordering preparation for copyright registration from RegService.

We provide such services:

• Legal advice
• Preparation of documentation
• Payment of fees and duties
• Obtaining a permit and certificate of copyright registration for a computer program
• Transfer of the certificate to the author

To find out about the cost of registration, as well as to order the service from the lawyers of RegService, please call the number listed on the website or fill out the feedback form.

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