How to Register Your Copyrighted Work In Namibia

If you’re looking to register your copyrighted work in Namibia, you will need to complete and submit Form No. CR1 (CR1 form) to the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA).

Fill out the application form

You’ll need to provide information about yourself, the author(s) of the work, and the copyright work itself. The application form includes sections for personal details, organization/company details (if applicable), and a brief description of the work.

How to complete the CR1 Application form

The form includes various sections for the applicant’s personal and contact details, details about the author(s) of the copyrighted work, and details about the copyrighted work itself. There is also a section for production details if the work has been published, as well as an abstract or brief description of the work if necessary.

The form also includes a declaration that the applicant understands the nature of copyright protection and the voluntary nature of registration, as well as their responsibilities as a property owner if their work becomes subject to infringement. Finally, there are tick boxes for various attachments that may be submitted with the application, such as proof of payment and a copy of the work.

Attach the necessary documents

You will need to provide certified copies of identification documents, proof of payment, and a copy of the work itself (e.g. book, manual, poster, DVD, USB, CD, VCD).

Pay the application fee to Register Your Copyrighted Work In Namibia

The application fee is N$200.00.

Submit your application

You can submit your application in person at BIPA‘s office in Windhoek or by mail to the following address:

Business and Intellectual Property Authority Copyright Office
P.O. Box 2404
Windhoek
Namibia

Wait for processing

BIPA will process your application and issue a Certificate (Copyright Testimonial) if approved. It is important to note that copyright protection only extends to the expression of ideas and not the ideas, concepts, or slogans contained therein or better protected by other intellectual systems.

It is also important to note that registration of copyright work does not prevent other persons from independently creating similar works or marketing/practicing the idea contained in the copyrighted work. If your work becomes subject to infringement, it is your responsibility as the property owner to initiate action against the infringer through criminal action as may be applicable by law.

If you’re unsure whether your work qualifies for copyright protection, it is best to seek legal advice. Copyright law can be complex and varies by jurisdiction.

If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!