Detailed instructions for registering song copyright from A to Z

Registering a song’s copyright is an indispensable step to protect the legitimate rights of musicians, singers, and music producers. This is not only a legal procedure, but also an affirmation of the creative value and intellectual property rights of the work.

A song can take weeks or months to create, but only a few minutes to be copied or used illegally if not protected. In the digital age, where content can spread instantly, registering copyright for song authorship is an indispensable step to protect the legitimate rights of composers, singers, and music producers. This is not only a legal procedure but also an affirmation of the creative value and intellectual property rights of the work.
This article will guide you from A to Z on the process of registering song authorship copyright, from identifying rights to how to submit the application and practical notes to help you avoid mistakes during the process.

song copyright

1. What is song authorship copyright?

Song authorship copyright is the intellectual property right arising from a musical work – including lyrics, melody, and arrangement – created by an individual or organization. According to the Intellectual Property Law of Vietnam, author rights include:

Moral rights: the right to be credited, to publish, to edit, or to prohibit others from altering the content of the work.
Economic rights: the right to commercially exploit the work such as performance, copying, distribution, collecting royalties...

Registering song authorship copyright is not mandatory for recognition, but it is the strongest legal evidence if disputes arise later.

2. Who should register song copyright?

Anyone who creates, owns, or co-owns a song can and should register song authorship copyright, including:

Independent composers, singers, songwriters
Music producers, recording studios, entertainment companies
Organizations or businesses investing in music production
Co-authors or authorized representatives of the copyright owner

Especially for songs used in advertising, digital platforms, game shows, films... registering copyright becomes even more essential to prevent copying and plagiarism.

song copyright

3. What documents are needed to register song authorship copyright?

To proceed with song authorship copyright registration, applicants must prepare valid documents according to Circular 08/2023/TT-BVHTTDL, including:

Copyright registration form (official template)
Two printed or copied complete versions of the song (including lyrics and music)
Author's ID (ID card/CCCD/passport)
Author's commitment letter confirming authorship (for individuals)
Authorization letter (if authorized to submit on behalf)
Confirmation of co-authorship or joint ownership (if any)
Proof of ownership (if applicant is not the author)

The entire application should be prepared both on paper and electronically for online or direct submission.

4. Step-by-step process of registering song authorship copyright

Below is a detailed guide to correctly and legally register song authorship copyright:

4.1 Step 1: Prepare the complete music score

The work must be complete in content – including both lyrics and melody. You can submit a handwritten copy, a printed version from a computer, or a music arrangement with an MP3 file.

4.2 Step 2: Prepare a complete application

Collect all necessary documents such as the registration form, ID, author’s commitment letter... For co-authored songs, clearly state ownership percentages.

4.3 Step 3: Submit the application

There are two submission methods:

Directly or by post to the Copyright Office – Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Online at: https://dichvucong.gov.vn

4.4 Step 4: Track and receive the result

Within 15 working days, if the application is valid, the Office will issue a Certificate of Copyright for the song. If invalid, a refusal notice or a request for additional information will be sent.

5. Some notes when registering song authorship copyright

To ensure a smooth song authorship copyright registration process, please pay attention to:

The work must be your original creation, not copied.
Do not use beats/music arrangements with copyright unless clearly agreed.
Co-authored works must clearly state ownership percentages and exploitation rights.
Register before widespread release or online publishing.
Businesses should attach business licenses or contracts transferring ownership rights.

song copyright

6. Full-service song copyright registration

If you are a creator but unfamiliar with legal procedures, using a song authorship copyright registration service is the optimal solution to save time and avoid mistakes. Luật Thiên Di is the best choice, with many years of experience in intellectual property, proudly consulting and handling song authorship copyright registrations for hundreds of musicians and producers in Vietnam.