October 7, 2025

THE BEST EASY WAY TO COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION IN BANGLADESH: 2025

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Copyright Registration in Bangladesh is vital for protecting intellectual property. The Copyright Act, 2023, governs this process and safeguards original works. Copyright protection is automatic upon creation, but officially registering with the Bangladesh Copyright Office provides key legal benefits in disputes.

This guide offers a clear, step-by-step overview of Copyright Registration in Bangladesh. Learn the essential requirements and process to protect your work and support the creative sector.

Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

For understanding copyright registration in Bangladesh, we have to know;

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a form of intellectual property (IP) right. It protects creators of original works of authorship. Simply put, copyright gives creators control over how their work is used. It also allows creators to receive acknowledgement and financial rewards for their creativity. This legal protection exists from the moment an original creative work—like a book, song, or painting—is in tangible form. The copyright owner has exclusive rights to reproduce, adapt, distribute, display, and perform the work. The primary purpose is to encourage creativity and innovation. Creators have incentives to produce new works, knowing they have control and can receive financial reward. Copyright protection lasts for a limited time. After this period, works enter the public domain and become free for others to use.

Governing Laws:

The history of copyright laws in Bangladesh shows a move from old colonial rules to a modern, local system. The changes include important laws to improve intellectual property protection and follow world standards.

Colonial and Post-Partition Era:

The British Copyright Act 1911 first established copyright in the Indian subcontinent. After the partition of India in 1947, this law was replaced by Pakistan’s Copyright Ordinance in 1962. This ordinance became the first dedicated copyright law for the region that would later become Bangladesh. It also set up a regional Copyright Office in Dhaka.

Post-Independence and Modernization:

After becoming independent in 1971, Bangladesh kept the 1962 copyright law and changed the Dhaka Regional Copyright Office to the main national office. The Copyright Act of 2000 brought significant changes. It modernized the law and made it match world treaties, like the Berne Convention and TRIPS. It also added protection for computer programs and digital works. The law was updated in 2005 to make it better.

The Digital Age and Beyond:

The Copyright Act, 2023, is the newest law and replaced the 2000 Act. This law deals with new problems, especially online piracy. The 2023 Act sets harsher penalties for breaking copyright laws. It also protects new types of work, like folklore, traditional knowledge, and digital creations. These updates help Bangladesh keep its copyright law up to date as technology changes.

International Treaties:

Bangladesh is a member of essential groups and treaties about copyright and intellectual property. These connections help protect the rights of Bangladeshi creators in other countries and make sure foreign works are protected in Bangladesh.

The primary international treaties and agreements that Bangladesh is a party to are:

Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works: Bangladesh joined this convention on May 4, 1999. The Berne Convention is a key international agreement establishing the principle of “National Treatment,” meaning works from one member country receive equivalent copyright protection in all member countries.

Bangladesh is a WTO member, so it follows the TRIPS agreement. This agreement sets basic rules for intellectual property. Copyright protection is automatic when a work is created, so it is not necessary to register a work for basic safety in a TRIPS member country. However, TRIPS asks members to have sound systems to enforce rights. In Bangladesh, registering your copyright gives you official proof of ownership. This proof helps in legal cases and makes it easier to claim damages if someone copies your work. In short, TRIPS protects creators from the start, and registering your copyright helps you defend your rights.

WIPO Convention: Bangladesh became a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on May 11, 1995. WIPO is a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to promoting intellectual property protection worldwide.

These global promises are part of Bangladesh’s law, mainly the Copyright Act, 2023, which meets the main rules in these world agreements.

Authority of Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Copyright Office (BCO) is the leading group in charge of copyright registration in Bangladesh.

Name: Copyright Office, Bangladesh.
Address: National Library Bhaban (Level 3), 32, Justice S.M. Murshed Sarani, Agargaon, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh.
Website: www.copyrightoffice.gov.bd

Scope of Protection Terms Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

According to the law, the following works are protected:

Literary works: Books, articles, poetry, speeches, computer programs
Artistic works: paintings, drawings, sculptures, maps, photographs.
Musical works: songs, compositions, lyrics.
Dramatic works: plays, scripts, choreography.
Cinematographic works: Movies, documentaries, video productions.
Sound recordings: recordings of music, spoken word.
Software and digital works: Software, databases, and various IT-oriented digital works.

What Copyright Registration in Bangladesh Does Not Protect?

The Bangladesh Copyright Act, 2023, only protects original ways of showing ideas, not the ideas themselves. So, the Act does not protect things that are not original or not written down, like ideas, facts, and methods. Everyday things like names, short phrases, slogans, or simple styles are also not protected. They are considered too common to be original. Works that are too old and out of the protection period also are not protected—they are in the public domain.

Benefits of Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

Legal evidence of ownership
Public record
Facilities endorsement
Commercial value
Prevent Misuse
International Recognition
Ability to file a lawsuit
Eligibility for statutory damages and attorney’s fees
Prevention against infringement
Establishes a date of creation

Who is Eligible to Apply for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh?

Under the Copyright Act, 2023, many people and groups can register copyright in Bangladesh. Copyright exists as soon as a work is created, but registration gives legal proof of ownership—a big help if someone copies your work. Usually, the author or creator, like someone who has written a book, made music, created art, built software, or made a film, applies. But publishers or anyone who owns the work can use it too, such as someone who bought the rights. Companies can also apply if they own the work made by employees. An exclusive licensee, who has the only right to use a work in a certain way, can also apply. The law now also covers digital works, traditional knowledge, and folklore. The work must be original, written down, and the applicant must submit a form, pay a fee, and give copies of the work and proof of ownership to the Copyright Office.

Copyright Registration in Bangladesh Procedure:

The steps for registering copyright in Bangladesh under the Copyright Act, 2023, are essential to prove who owns a work. The Bangladesh Copyright Office runs the process. The steps are:

Step 1: Preparation of Application and Documents for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The first and most crucial stage of copyright registration in Bangladesh is preparing a complete and accurate set of documents and information before submission. Proper preparation helps avoid administrative delays and ensures smooth verification by the Bangladesh Copyright Office.

To begin the process:

Gather all required information related to the applicant and the creative work, following the checklist provided in the Required Documents for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh section.
Ensure that the official application form is correctly filled out with accurate details of the work, applicant, and ownership.
For physical submission, all necessary attestations should be adequately completed — including the attester’s name, designation, and official seal, which must be clear and legible.
Double-check that all supporting papers, such as the undertaking, identity proof, deed of assignment, or power of attorney, are signed and prepared on the correct type of paper (e.g., non-judicial stamp or cartridge paper) as required under the Copyright Act, 2023 and other relevant laws.

Proper preparation at this stage makes sure that your copyright registration application in Bangladesh is complete, compliant, and ready for payment and submission in the next step.

Pro Tip: Incomplete or improperly attested documents are among the most common reasons for delay or rejection in the copyright registration process in Bangladesh. Reviewing each form carefully before submission saves significant time.

Documents Required for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

When applying for copyright registration in Bangladesh, applicants must prepare a set of documents as prescribed by the Copyright Act, 2023 and the Copyright Rules. These documents ensure that the ownership, originality, and nature of the work are verified adequately before registration. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the essential documents required:

1. Application Form

A completed copyright application form in the prescribed format must be submitted, either online or physically, to the Bangladesh Copyright Office.

2. Copies of the Work

Two copies of the creative work are required for submission:

Software: A CD or flash drive containing the source code or demo version.
Artistic works: High-quality copies or photographs of the artwork.
Music: A list of songs (maximum 12 per application) with names of the lyricist, composer, and singer, signed by the applicant.

3. Statement of Particulars

A detailed Statement of Particulars (as per Form I of the Copyright Rules) must be provided. This is often prepared on non-judicial stamp paper, containing key details of the applicant and the work.

4. Proof of Identity and Address

Depending on the applicant type:

For Individuals: Photocopy of National ID card or passport, plus one attested passport-sized photograph.
For Companies/Institutions: Copies of the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, updated Trade Licence, TIN certificate, and the latest income tax return acknowledgement.

5. Undertaking or Affidavit

An undertaking or affidavit (on cartridge or non-judicial stamp paper) confirming:

The originality of the work.
That no legal disputes are pending regarding ownership.
The accuracy of the submitted information.

6. Deed of Assignment (if applicable)

If the applicant is not the original creator, a notarised Deed of Assignment or transfer agreement executed on appropriate non-judicial stamp paper must be submitted. This document should clearly establish the legal transfer of copyright ownership.

If the work was created under employment, the creator’s appointment letter or employment agreement may also be required.
For joint works or designs (e.g., cover art), a Deed of Transfer from the respective contributor must be attached.
If the copyright is transferred from a foreign entity to a Bangladeshi applicant, the Deed of Transfer from the foreign owner is necessary.

7. Power of Attorney (Vakalatnama)

If an advocate or authorised agent is submitting the application, a Power of Attorney duly signed by the applicant must accompany the form.

8. Applicant’s Contact Information

The applicant’s full name, address, and contact number must be clearly mentioned in the form to facilitate official correspondence.

9. Work-Specific Details

Depending on the nature of the work, additional information may be required:

Software: Description of its usability, features, or functionality.
Artistic Works: An artistic explanation or visual description of the piece.

Step 2: Payment of Fees for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

Before submission, applicants must confirm the applicable copyright registration fee directly from the Bangladesh Copyright Office. The fee amount may vary depending on the category of the creative work and any updated government circulars.

Once confirmed:

Pay the prescribed fee via a Treasury Challan at a designated bank such as Bangladesh Bank or Sonali Bank, under the specific government head of account.
Alternatively, payment can be made through an online payment portal linked from the official Copyright Office website.
Keep the original Treasury Challan or digital payment receipt as proof of payment, as it must be attached to the application.

Proper payment verification makes sure that your copyright registration in Bangladesh goes smoothly without administrative delays.

Step 3: Application Submission for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The application can be submitted both online and physically, depending on the applicant’s preference and the type of work being registered.

Online Submission

Applicants can submit their copyright application through the e-Copyright system of the Bangladesh Copyright Office, available at www.bcoecopyright.gov.bd.

Create an account on the portal.
Fill in all necessary details and upload the required documents electronically.
Submit the application to receive a system-generated reference number.

Physical Submission

After online submission, a printed copy of the application (including the reference number), along with all required hardcopy documents and the original Treasury Challan, must be physically submitted within the prescribed time frame — typically within 15 days of the online submission.

Submission Address:

Copyright Office, Bangladesh National Library Bhaban (3rd Floor)
32, Justice S.M. Murshed Sarani, Agargaon, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh

Step 4: Examination and Verification by the Copyright Office

Once the application and documents are received, the Bangladesh Copyright Office begins a structured examination process to verify the accuracy and authenticity of the submission.

Typical process and time frame:

Application Receipt & File Creation: Acknowledgement and creation of a case file (≈ 3 working days).
Document Scrutiny: Inspectors verify the accuracy and completeness of submitted materials (≈ 3 working days).
Challan Verification: Confirmation of payment validity and accuracy (≈ 7 working days).
Final Document Check: Assistant Examiner reviews all documents for compliance (≈ 5 working days).
Case Examination: Examiner assesses whether the application meets the requirements of the Copyright Act, 2023(≈ 5 working days).
Deputy Registrar’s Opinion: Review of the examiner’s findings and recommendation for final decision (≈ 3 working days).

If discrepancies, missing documents, or clarifications are required, the applicant is notified and allowed to submit corrections or additional materials before further processing.

Step 5: Waiting Period for Objections

Following verification, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period during which the copyright application remains open to the public for potential objections.

The waiting period starts from the date of application acceptance.
Any third party claiming ownership or opposing registration may file an objection within these 30 days.
After the objection period ends, the application is typically reviewed by the Copyright Registrar around the 31st day.

This period ensures transparency and protects existing copyright holders from potential duplication or infringement.

Step 6: Decision, Handling of Objections, and Certificate Issuance

After the objection period, the Registrar proceeds to make a final decision on the copyright registration in Bangladesh based on the application’s compliance and any objections received.

If No Objections Are Received:

The Registrar verifies all final details and approves registration.
The copyright details are entered into the Register of Copyrights, and a Certificate of Registration is issued to the applicant (usually within 3 working days after approval).

If Objections Are Raised:

The applicant is notified within 3 days of objection identification.
An investigation is carried out (approximately between the 31st and 44th day after application).
A hearing is scheduled around the 45th day, allowing both parties to present their positions.
The Registrar issues a decision based on the investigation and hearing outcome.

Once approved, the registration details are entered into the official Column Register (≈ 10 working days), and the original file is archived at the Copyright Office Library (≈ 7 working days).

In summary, obtaining copyright registration in Bangladesh involves a structured process that ensures authenticity, transparency, and proper ownership validation. Once completed, the Certificate of Copyright Registration serves as definitive proof of ownership, offering strong legal protection for your creative work.

Fees for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Copyright Office determines the fee structure for copyright registration in Bangladesh and may vary depending on the type of creative work and supporting documents involved. Applicants are advised to verify the latest fees before submission, as these are subject to periodic updates under official notifications.

1. Registration Fee for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The primary application processing fee for copyright registration is generally around BDT 1,000 for most creative works, as per recent citizen charters. However, this amount may change based on the category of the work or administrative updates.

Payments are made via Treasury Challan to the designated government revenue code through Bangladesh Bank or Sonali Bank.
Alternatively, applicants can pay online through the Copyright Office’s official payment portal, where available.
The original e-Challan or online payment receipt must be attached to the application as proof of payment.

2. Stamp Paper and Related Costs for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

Additional costs may arise for non-judicial stamp paper, which is required for certain documents accompanying the application, such as:

Deed of Assignment or Transfer Agreement
Statement of Particulars (if executed on stamp paper)
Undertakings or Affidavits affirming originality and ownership

These stamp paper expenses vary depending on the value and type of document being executed, but are a standard part of the copyright registration process in Bangladesh.

Note: Keeping updated with the current copyright registration fee schedule helps applicants avoid processing delays or document rejections. It’s recommended to consult the Bangladesh Copyright Office or a qualified legal advisor before submission.

Timelines for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

Understanding the processing time for copyright registration in Bangladesh is essential for creators, businesses, and legal representatives planning to secure ownership rights over their creative works.

Official Timeline (as per Copyright Office Guidelines)

According to the Citizen Charter of the Copyright Office, the standard processing period for copyright registration of creative works in Bangladesh is approximately 60 working days from the date of submission of the hard copy application — provided that all documents are accurate, complete, and no objections are raised during the examination process.

Practical Timeline (Actual Processing Duration)

In practice, the actual time for copyright registration may vary depending on several factors:

The complexity and type of creative work submitted.
The workload and case volume at the Bangladesh Copyright Office.
The accuracy and completeness of your documentation.
Any queries or objections raised during verification or examination.

As a result, applicants should anticipate a total duration of two to three months, or in some cases even longer, to complete the entire registration process and receive the Certificate of Copyright Registration in Bangladesh.

Duration of Copyright Protection:

The Copyright Act,2023, primarily governs the duration of copyright protection in Bangladesh. The term of protection varies depending on the type of work and the circumstances of its publication.

Here is a Breakdown of the Time Duration:

For most works (literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic): Copyright protection lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 60 years from the beginning of the calendar year following the year of the author’s death.
For the works of joint authorship: The term is 60 years from the death of the last surviving author.
For cinematographic films, sound recordings, and photographs: Copyright lasts for 60 years from the beginning of the calendar year following the work was first published.
For government works and works of local authorities: The duration is 60 years from the date of first publication.
For broadcasting rights: Protection lasts for 25 years from the beginning of the calendar year in which the broadcast was made.
For performers’ rights: The term is 50 years from the beginning of the calendar year in which the performance was made.
For the publisher’s rights related to the typographical arrangement of an edition: The term is 25 years from the beginning of the calendar year following the year the edition was first published.

Enforcement of Copyright/Remedies Under Copyright Protection

The Copyright Act of Bangladesh provides a comprehensive framework for the enforcement of copyright protection and the remedies available to copyright holders. While copyright protection is automatic upon creation, registration is highly recommended as the registration certificate serves as prima facie evidence of ownership in legal proceedings, significantly easing the burden of proof for the plaintiff. Enforcement mechanisms and remedies are classified into three main categories: Civil, Criminal, and Administrative.

Civil Remedies:

Copyright holders primarily seek civil remedies through the Court of a District Judge to get compensation and immediately stop infringement. The most common remedies include an Injunction, which is a court order to instantly halt all unauthorized use or distribution of the copyrighted work; Damages, which is monetary compensation for the financial losses incurred by the owner due to the piracy; and Accounts of Profits, which compels the infringer to hand over the profits they illegally made from the copyrighted material. Crucially, having a copyright registration certificate is key, as it serves as prima facie evidence of ownership, making the process of proving your case for these civil remedies significantly easier and faster in court.

Criminal Remedies:

In Bangladesh, criminal remedies under the Copyright Act are the punitive actions taken against serious, often commercial, acts of piracy. These remedies are designed to deter infringement through severe punishments. Wilful infringement is a cognizable offence, meaning the police can take action, and the cases are heard in a Court of Sessions. The Act significantly increased the penalties: infringers may face imprisonment (e.g., up to five years for film copyright violation) and heavy fines (up to BDT 10,00,000 for film infringement). Furthermore, the criminal process allows for the seizure and destruction of all pirated goods, plates, and machinery used to produce the infringing copies.

Administrative Remedies:

Administrative remedies in Bangladesh primarily focus on controlling the entry of infringing goods into the country, providing a non-judicial path for enforcement under the Copyright Act. The key mechanism involves the Registrar of Copyrights, who can act upon an application from the copyright owner to notify the Customs Authority to ban the importation of pirated copies. Additionally, the new Act includes provisions for establishing a Task Force on Enforcement of Intellectual Property Law to proactively conduct raids and enforce IP rights outside of the traditional civil or criminal court structure, signalling an administrative push to combat piracy actively.

The Role of Technology, e-Copyright for Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

The Copyright Act in Bangladesh has modernized the law to embrace the digital world, giving a central role to technology in both protection and enforcement. It formally recognizes e-copyright, explicitly extending protection to new subject matter like ICT-related products, computer programs, and databases. Furthermore, the Act facilitates the entire registration process through the e-Copyright system, allowing creators to register their works online. Crucially, it classifies unauthorized use on digital platforms and social media as infringement and imposes stricter penalties to combat the rampant issue of digital piracy actively.

Common Challenges in Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

Bureaucratic delays
Disputes over ownership
Lack of a digital application system
Awareness gap among creators

Recent Developments and Global Relevance

The Copyright Act, 2023, represents the most significant recent development in Bangladesh’s copyright registration landscape, fundamentally modernizing its legal framework and boosting its global relevance. The new Act specifically addresses the challenges of the digital age by expanding protection to ICT-related works, databases, and digital content, while simultaneously ensuring global alignment by incorporating provisions of the Marrakesh Treaty to assist the visually impaired. Furthermore, it introduces a crucial chapter on the protection of Folk-knowledge and Folk-culture, a measure with international significance for preserving cultural heritage. By imposing harsher penalties for piracy and strengthening the Copyright Office, the law signals Bangladesh’s commitment to robust intellectual property enforcement, thus enhancing the confidence of foreign creators and investors operating under international agreements like the Berne Convention.

Conclusion

Copyright registration in Bangladesh plays a crucial role in protecting creativity, ensuring fair recognition, and supporting the country’s growing knowledge economy. While copyright protection arises automatically under the Copyright Act, 2023, formal registration with the Bangladesh Copyright Office provides creators and organizations with essential legal evidence to enforce their rights, prevent infringement, and secure commercial advantages. The new Act’s alignment with international treaties, its focus on digital protection, and its recognition of folklore and traditional knowledge reflect Bangladesh’s evolving commitment to intellectual property protection in the global context.

However, navigating the registration process — from preparing documents to handling objections and ensuring compliance — can be complex, especially for businesses, publishers, and digital creators unfamiliar with the legal framework.

Editor: Osman Gani Tuhin

Author: Anisa Tahsin

At Tuhin & Partners, we help individuals, companies, and creative professionals secure their intellectual property through seamless copyright registration in Bangladesh. Our team assists with preparing applications, ensuring compliance with the Copyright Act, 2023, managing communications with the Copyright Office, and representing clients in copyright disputes or enforcement actions. Whether you are an author, software developer, filmmaker, or brand owner, we ensure your creative work receives the legal protection it deserves — both in Bangladesh and internationally.

Protect your creativity. Strengthen your rights. Partner with Tuhin & Partners for copyright registration in Bangladesh.

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THE BEST EASY WAY TO COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION IN BANGLADESH: 2025

Copyright Registration in Bangladesh

What is Copyright?

Governing Laws:

Colonial and Post-Partition Era:

Post-Independence and Modernization:

The Digital Age and Beyond:

International Treaties: