How do creators protect their work in the United Kingdom, and can AI work be copyrighted?
UK copyright arises automatically when you create original work, including photography, illustration, film, music and sound recordings, software and web content. You do not apply or pay a fee, and there is no register of copyright works in the UK.
Sources: GOV.UK: How copyright protects your work
Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.
Copyright stops others copying, distributing, renting, lending, performing, adapting or putting your work on the internet without permission. The © symbol, your name and the year are optional and do not change your protection. For protection abroad, GOV.UK says most countries give at least life plus 50 years for artistic works and at least 25 years for photographs.
Sources: GOV.UK: How copyright protects your work
Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.
More for the United Kingdom: Getting paid · Taxes for creators · Filming & photo permits · Drone rules · Sponsored post rules · Visas for creators
Copyright in other countries: United States · Nigeria · Ghana · Kenya · South Africa · Canada · Australia
Last verified October 6, 2026 by Terrell Groggins. Rules change: check the official source before you shoot or post. This is not legal advice.