Copyright Usage
Intellectual Property (IP) and Copyright Protection
Last updated 15 August 2025
Update as of 11 February 2022: Singapore's revised Copyright Act, in force from 21 November 2021, replaces the previous Copyright Act (Cap. 63). The factsheet explains key changes that businesses operating in Singapore should note, in particular:
New licenses that may be required when using copyright-protected sound recordings;
Changes to who owns copyright in the absence of a contract; and
New obligations to identify creators and performers when using their content publicly
For more information, please read the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore’s factsheet here.
Copyright Fundamentals
Singapore's copyright law provides automatic protection for your creative work as soon as it takes tangible form.
Key points to understand:
Protection lasts 70 years after the creator's death for most works
No formal registration required
Covers expressed works, not ideas
Applies to literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works
Collaboration and Commissioned Works
Joint Works
All collaborators hold equal rights
Requires unanimous consent for licensing
Each contributor has undivided interest
Commissioned Works
Default ownership varies by work type
Portraits, photographs, and engravings may belong to commissioner
Other works remain with creator unless contracted otherwise
Original purpose restrictions apply
Protecting Your Work
Practical Steps
Document your creative process
Keep dated records
Consider early registration with IPOS
Use written agreements for collaborations
If Your Rights Are Infringed
Negotiate through mediation first
Legal options include:
Cease and desist actions
Damage claims
Profit recovery
Using Others' Work
Best Practices
Always seek permission
Check license terms carefully
Consider Creative Commons options
Document all permissions
Note: This information is for general reference. Consult legal professionals for specific situations.