How to register copyright for written works quickly and legally
Have you found your book, short story, or document appearing elsewhere without permission? Most likely, you have not completed the most crucial step – registering copyright for your written work. The following article will help you grasp the steps for quick, legal, and effective registration.
1. What is Copyright for Written Works?
Copyright for written works refers to the lawful ownership rights of individuals or organizations over creative content in written form, such as short stories, novels, poetry, articles, research documents, teaching materials, etc. According to Vietnam’s Intellectual Property Law, written works belong to the category of literary works and are protected from the moment they are fixed in a tangible form.
This right includes both moral rights (linked to the author’s identity) and economic rights (the right to exploit, transfer, and license the use of the written work). Although copyright registration is not mandatory for protection, it serves as the strongest legal evidence in case of disputes.
2. Why Should You Register Copyright for Written Works?
In today’s highly competitive creative environment, registering copyright for written works brings many practical benefits:
- Affirm legal ownership: Helps you prove your authorship in case of copying or plagiarism.
- Increase commercial value of the work: Once protected, you can legally transfer, license, or publish your work.
- Prevent legal risks: Early registration proactively safeguards your rights in case of disputes.
- Enhance personal or organizational brand: For writers, lecturers, and educational organizations, this is a step to affirm reputation and professionalism.
3. Who Can Register Copyright?
According to the Intellectual Property Law, the following individuals and organizations are eligible to register copyright:
- Authors who directly create the work.
- Co-authors (in cases of collaborative creation).
- Copyright owners (individuals or organizations that invest financially, provide resources, or facilitate the creation of the work).
4. Copyright Registration Dossier for Written Works
To register copyright, you need to prepare the following documents:
- Copyright registration application form (as per the official template).
- 02 copies of the written work (clearly printed with complete content).
- Proof of right to apply (if the applicant is not the author).
- Copy of ID card/passport of the author or legal representative.
- Power of attorney (if applying through a representative).
- Copyright registration process for written works.
The copyright registration process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare Dossier
Ensure the dossier is complete and complies with the Copyright Office’s regulations.
Step 2: Submit Dossier
Submit directly or by post to the Copyright Office or its representative offices in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Da Nang.
Step 3: Receive Dossier Receipt
Upon acceptance, the authority will issue a receipt to track the processing progress.
Step 4: Receive Copyright Certificate
Within 15 working days (if the dossier is valid), the Copyright Office will issue the Copyright Certificate.
5. Notes When Registering Copyright for Written Works
- No plagiarism: The work must be your own creation, not copied from others.
- Early registration: Register as soon as the content is completed to protect your rights promptly.
- Consistent information: All information in the dossier must be consistent to avoid rejection.
- Content confidentiality: If needed, you may request to seal the copies of the work.
6. Copyright Registration Service at Luật Thiên Di
If you lack time to study legal procedures or wish to ensure a fast and accurate process, let Luật Thiên Di assist you:
We provide full-package services from A to Z, including:
- Consulting on protection eligibility and offering effective solutions.
- Free preliminary feasibility search before application.
- Preparing valid dossiers according to regulations.
- Submitting the application and tracking the process on behalf of clients.
- Handling appeals and responses in case of rejection or disputes.
With hundreds of domestic and international clients, Luật Thiên Di is a trusted choice to protect your intellectual property.
7. Contact for Consultation and Fast Support
👉 If you need support for copyright registration for your written work, don’t hesitate to contact Luật Thiên Di for dedicated, quick, and accurate consultation:
📍 LUẬT THIÊN DI COMPANY LIMITED
Luật Thiên Di – your companion in protecting creative value!