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The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) Nepal

Last updated by Dipendra Shah

If you are a business owner, content creator, or entrepreneur in Nepal, understanding the Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) is crucial. This law protects your creative works—whether it’s written content, music, designs, or software—from being copied or misused without your permission.

In this blog, we’ll explain what the Copyright Act is, why it matters, and how it affects your business in Nepal.

Understanding the Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) – Nepal

Copyright is a legal right that gives the creator of original works the exclusive right to use, reproduce, distribute, and monetize their creation for a specific period of time.

Examples of copyrighted work include:

  • Books, articles, and blogs
  • Songs and music compositions
  • Software and mobile apps
  • Photographs and artworks
  • Films and video content
  • Architectural designs
  • Websites and digital content

The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) is the primary legal framework in Nepal that governs copyright issues. It provides protection to creators and sets penalties for copyright infringement.

Here are some important features:

1. Automatic Protection

You do not need to register your work to get copyright protection. As soon as your original work is created and recorded (in writing, music, or digital form), it is automatically protected under Nepali copyright law.

  • For individuals: Copyright lasts for the lifetime of the creator plus 50 years after their death.
  • For institutions or anonymous works: It lasts for 50 years from the date of publication.

Under the Act, copyright holders have the right to:

  • Reproduce or publish their work
  • Translate or adapt their work
  • Distribute, perform, or broadcast their work
  • License others to use their work (e.g., selling rights to a publisher or media)

Although registration is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for legal proof and protection. Copyrights can be registered at the Copyright Registrar’s Office under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.

The Act has strict penalties for using someone’s work without permission:

  • Fines up to Rs. 100,000
  • Confiscation of illegal copies
  • Compensation to the copyright holder

Repeat offenders may also face more severe punishments.

If you’re running a business or startup in Nepal, you’re likely creating logos, website content, marketing material, or software. These are all protected under the Copyright Act.

By understanding and using copyright laws properly, you can:

✅ Protect your brand and digital assets
✅ Avoid legal trouble from using others’ work
✅ Build a trustworthy and ethical business
✅ License or monetize your original work

Want to read the full legal text of the Copyright Act, 2059 (2002)?

You can download the official version of the Act (in PDF format) below:

Download The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) – PDF (English)

  1. The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) – Nepal
  2. How to Register a Copyright in Nepal
  3. How to Modify or Update an Existing Copyright Registration in Nepal
  4. How to File a Copyright Complaint or Dispute in Nepal
  5. How to Transfer or License Copyright in Nepal
  6. International Copyright Protection for Nepali Creators
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