Do I have to register my software in Russia?

Our software has been registered with the Italian Society of Authors and Publishers (SIAE). To obtain protection in Russia, do we have to register it in your country? Is the foreign registration automatically recognized?

According to the Berne Convention, a software program created in one of the member states of the Convention is automatically protected in Russia. In general, there are no requirements for copyright deposit or registration, and copyright protection emerges automatically.

Software is the only object of copyright that can be registered by the Russian state, but even in this case, registration is voluntary. Many entities choose official registration of their software programs with Rospatent (RUPTO) as a way of proving the fact and date of creation. Generally, this can help solve disputes over ownership or creation, as well as facilitate financial transactions, sales, and the assignment/transfer of rights. However, if, in a dispute, the opposite party can provide proof of creation at an earlier time (including information from foreign repositories, such as SIAE), the court shall rule for that party.

To summarize, this means that the Italian registration/deposit of the software will be recognized in Russia in case of a legal dispute. No additional protection measures are required.