In the modern world, where technologies are rapidly advancing, creating computer programs is a key component of successful business. However, many talented developers often face the question of protecting their creative works. One way to safeguard intellectual property in this field is to register the copyright for a computer program.
Why register copyright for software?
- Innovation Protection: Registration allows protecting innovative ideas forming the basis of your program from unauthorized copying or use by other companies. To eliminate any unlawful use of your work, presenting a certificate of copyright registration is necessary (for example, to remove a mobile application copy from Google Play, you need to contact support and provide documents confirming the program’s authorship).
- Commercial Potential: For companies planning to sell their program or license it, having a registered copyright is a key argument in negotiations and building trust with clients. The presence of certificates in a company makes it more attractive for investments and more valuable for buyers.
- Confirmation of Legal Income: To open bank accounts and conduct payments, some banks require providing a copyright registration certificate to confirm ownership rights to the program.
How to register the copyright for a computer program in Ukraine?
In Ukraine, computer programs are protected as literary works. This protection mainly covers the text code of the program, leaving principles, methods, processes, or procedures used in the program beyond the protection. According to the legislation, copyright relates not to algorithms or ideas but only to their material expression, such as number sequences, text strings, codes, diagrams, symbols, and any other form that can be read by a computer.
To initiate the registration procedure in Ukraine, it is necessary to submit an application to the Ukrainian Intellectual Property Office (UKRPATENT) and attach the following documents:
- A copy of the work in the form of the original text (fragments of the original text) of the computer program in the volume necessary for its identification.
- A description of the computer program.
- A document confirming the fact and date of the work’s publication (if available).
- A document on the fee payment (255 UAH for individuals, 510 UAH for legal entities).
- Power of attorney if the application is filed by a representative.
The application review period is 2 months. After verifying the documents, UKRINPAT issues a conclusion on the presence of grounds for entering information about the state registration of copyright into the State Register of Certificates of Copyright Registration. Based on this conclusion, a certificate of copyright registration for the work is issued to the applicant.
Registering copyright for a computer program is not only about protecting your development but also a strategic step to safeguard intellectual property. If you need assistance with copyright registration or consultation on this matter, our legal team is always ready to help.
