When you create an original work that people can see or hear, such as a book, painting, or music, your copyright is automatically protected. Except for cinematograph films, most works eligible for copyright protection do not require registration or additional requirements.
You can create your own copyright by writing “copyright” or “copyright reserved” or using the internationally recognized copyright sign followed by your name and the year, for example, Baloyi 2011.
If you desire a copyright in a film, DVD, or video (link is external), you must apply to the Registrar of Copyright on required forms.
Learn more about copyright by visiting the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC)(link is external) or calling 086 100 2472.
What is the cost of a copyright license in South Africa?
Copyright develops naturally and is free. It is not required to be registered.
How long does copyright last in South Africa?
50 years
In South Africa, the term of copyright is 50 years, beginning with the end of the year in which the work was created or the author died or is thought to have died. Only after the copyright expires does the work become public domain.
What is not protected by copyright in South Africa?
Except for pictures, the copyright period in South Africa for literary, musical, and artistic works is fifty years from the end of the year of the author’s death, or fifty years from publication if it is first published after the author’s death.
Can you get free copyright?
In general, all you need to do is create an original work of art and write it down or record it in some other way. This will automatically generate copyright safeguards. In theory, you don’t have to own the original copy to have the copyright.
Is copyright automatically granted in South Africa?
When you create an original work that people can see or hear, such as a book, painting, or music, your copyright is automatically protected. Except for cinematograph films, most works eligible for copyright protection do not require registration or additional requirements.
What are the benefits of intellectual property in South Africa?
Copyright, unlike most other types of intellectual property, can be enforced in many other nations without the necessity for registration.
