What Is Software Copyright Registration and How Do You Get One?

Software copyright registration is the process of putting software under legal protection. The protected item is the machine-language form of a set of codes written under the rules of a programming language. Today, software runs everywhere from desktop computers to phones, and it carries significant value. Protecting and registering the software built through significant effort and investment is a matter of real importance for software developers. In Turkey, software is classified as a copyright work rather than an industrial property right, so it is protected by the General Directorate of Copyright rather than TÜRKPATENT (the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office).

Why software registration matters

Software registration matters: It legally protects the developer’s work. The protection blocks unauthorized copying, use, or distribution, preserving the commercial value of the software. Registered software gets legal security and gives the developer real rights.

Documents required for software registration

• Notarized power of attorney: a power of attorney notarized by the authorized signatories is required.
• Declaration: a declaration signed by the author. No notarization required.
• Copy of the work: a copy of the software on CD is required.

How do you get software registration

• Preparing the application: the required documents and application form for software registration are prepared.
• Filing the application: the prepared documents and application form are submitted to the General Directorate of Copyright.
• Review of the application: the authority reviews the application, identifies any gaps, and notifies the applicant. 3 months are given to address the gaps.
• Publication of the application: once accepted, the software registration application is officially published.
• Technical review: the technical features and originality of the software are reviewed in detail.
• Registration: on approval, the software is registered and placed under protection.

Protection period

Software registration gives your software 70 years of protection.

Sistem Patent provides professional support during the registration process so your software is secured. For more information on software registration and to start your filing, get in touch.