How much does it cost to register copyright?

While copyright protection exists automatically upon creation, many creators opt to register for the extra legal benefits and public record.

Registration fees vary significantly by country and work type, so let's break down what you can expect to pay in major jurisdictions.

What Affects Your Total Cost?

Before exploring specific fees, it's important to understand what influences how much is it to register a copyright:

1. Number of Works or Bundles
   Single registrations cost more per work; grouping unpublished manuscripts or photo sets can cut per-item fees dramatically.
2. Filing Method
   Online portals are the most cost-effective. Paper filings incur higher processing charges.
3. Optional Add-Ons
   • Expedited processing, extra certificates, and post-registration amendments carry their own fees.
4. Professional Assistance
   DIY filing saves on agent fees but risks errors. Although copyright registration services charge fees, they ensure proper filing. iGERENT’s transparent service packages include government fees plus our flat-rate support, so you see every cost line up front.

Sample Registration Fees by Country

Disclaimer: Fees listed are indicative. Always verify current rates on the official trademark office websites, as government fees can change without notice.

U.S. Office Add-Ons (USCO Only):

• Group registrations: Bundle unpublished works or published photographs at reduced flat rates.
• Special handling: Expedite processing in 5 business days for an extra US $800.
• Additional certificates: US $45 each for extra copies of your registration.
• Corrections / supplements: US $100–130 to amend or amplify existing records.
• Legacy renewals: US $125 for renewing pre-1978 registrations.

Professional Service Packages

If you find the process overwhelming or confusing, professional services like iGERENT’s global copyright registration can help protect your work by:

• Providing fixed-price quotes that combine all government and service fees
• Handling filings end-to-end, online or on paper, in any jurisdiction
• Securing bundled discounts for multiple works or group registrations
• Managing post-registration needs like additional certificates and renewals

Budgeting Tips

• Bundle filings: If you have multiple works, some offices offer reduced rates for collection applications.
• Plan for extras: Certificate copies, certified searches or expedited processing often incur separate charges.
• Professional quotes: If you hire an agent, ask for a transparent fee schedule covering all government and service costs.

Online filing consistently offers the most cost-effective option across all major jurisdictions, often saving 20-50% compared to paper applications. For creators with multiple works, group registration options can provide substantial per-work savings.

Whether you choose DIY filing or professional services, the key is understanding all associated costs upfront and selecting the registration strategy that best fits your creative goals and budget. The relatively modest investment in copyright registration provides long-term protection and legal advantages that far exceed the initial filing costs.

For more information about copyright fundamentals and whether registration is right for your work, see What Is Copyright?.