Copyright policy

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The USPTO’s copyright-related work is far reaching and includes:

• Treaty negotiation and monitoring the implementation of copyright-related international treaty provisions, including reviewing U.S. implementation of and adherence to international treaty obligations relating to copyright and related rights;
• Technical assistance and training on copyright-related matters, to both U.S. and foreign officials; and
• Monitoring domestic copyright policy developments within the Executive Branch, the U.S. Congress, and the courts.

The USPTO has helped develop, negotiate, and monitor key copyright-related international agreements, including the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) “Internet Treaties” (the WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty), and the Marrakesh Treaty. The USPTO monitors third countries’ adherence to and implementation of these and other copyright treaties, and advises the Executive Branch on corollary domestic issues and questions. More information about these treaties, on select copyright policy matters, and on international organizations focused on copyright is provided on the pages linked below. 

Copyright is among the many topics covered in the training and capacity building programs that the USPTO offers to foreign officials and to U.S. stakeholders. 

For information about copyright registration, including fees, filing forms, and other information, visit the U.S. Copyright Office.