Copyright

Copyright (is. höfundaréttur) is an unregistered right which emerges upon publication of a literary or an artistic work. An unpublished work does in general not enjoy any protection. Works which are eligible for protection are e.g. oral or written texts, dramatic works, musical compositions, works of visual art, architecture, cinematography, photography or applied art.

Copyright may be divided into two areas; the right to have ones name indicated and financial rights. The former always belongs to the author/artist himself, however, the financial rights may be transferred or licenced.

The ISIPO only provides general information on copyright, however, copyright may be an issue upon examining the registrability of trademarks or the patentability of an invention. The Ministry of Culture and Business affairs is responsble for copyright matters and several copyright associations may also provide more in-depth information concerning specific areas.

Works which are eligible for protection are e.g. oral or written texts and musical compositions.
Works which are eligible for protection are e.g. oral or written texts and musical compositions.

In a nutshell:

  • Copyrighted material

    e.g. music, books and photos

  • Unregistered right

    which emerges upon publication

  • Financial rights can be transferred

    or licensed

  • Lasts 70 years after the author´s death