Step-by-Step Guide to Copyright Registration in Uganda
Step-by-Step Guide to Copyright Registration in Uganda
Copyright in Uganda is governed by the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act, Cap 222. While copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of an original work, registration provides official recognition and proof of ownership.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Before applying, gather the following:
- Completed Application Form:
- Download the copyright application form here.
- For assignments, use the appropriate assignment application form.
- Copy of the Work to be Registered:
- Provide both a digital and physical copy of the work.
- Proof of Ownership for Assignments:
- Include contracts, agreements, or other supporting documents.
Step 2: Pay the Registration Fee
The registration fee is UGX 50,000. Payments can be made as follows:
Generate an Assessment Form:
- Visit the URA Portal (ura.go.ug):
- Go to Make Payment and select the Other NTR option.
- Enter your payer information.
- Select URSB as the agency.
- Under Departments, choose Intellectual Property.
- Select the appropriate applicant type (Local only).
- Choose the service:
- For copyright registration: Application for Registration of Copyright or Neighboring Rights.
- For assignments: Application for Registration of Assignment, Transfer, or License.
- Visit the URA Portal (ura.go.ug):
Make the Payment:
- Use a bank, mobile money, POS, or other payment methods.
Obtain Proof of Payment:
- Keep the receipt as proof of the transaction.
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can submit your application via email:
Via E-mail
Scan Required Documents:
- Scan the completed application form and proof of payment.
Submit via Email:
- Email the scanned documents to copyright@ursb.go.ug.
- Attach:
- Application form
- Proof of payment
- Digital/soft copy or source code of the work.
Submit Hard Copies:
- After email confirmation, deliver the hard copies (e.g., books, CDs, DVDs, or hard disks) to any URSB office.
Gazette Notice Publication:
- A gazette notice will be issued for publication with UPPC for 60 days.
Submit Proof of Advertisement:
- After 60 days of publication with no opposition, send the proof of advertisement to copyright@ursb.go.ug.
Receive Certificate:
- Once approved, a Certificate of Registration will be issued.