
TL;DR If you are looking to publish your mobile apps in China, you need to get the China Software Copyright Certificates.
What is a Software Copyright Certificate?
The Software Copyright Certificate (“SCC”, or “计算机软件著作权”) is used to prove and protect the copyright of your software or mobile app in mainland China. The certificate shows the certificate ID, the name of the software (application), and the company that owns the certificate.

FAQ about Software Copyright Certificate:
Is Software Copyright Certificate a trademark?
No, but it shows the ownership of the software to the Chinese app stores.
Can I still use the Software Copyright Certificate if I change the name?
No, you need to apply for a new certificate.
Why do I need a Software Copyright Certificate for China?
You must show this certificate when you publish your apps in Chinese app stores.
Tip: China’s leading Android app store is Huawei App Market, not Google Play Store.
Due to the massive number of unauthorized apps distributed in local Chinese app stores back then, the Copyright Center of China used the Software Copyright Certificate to remove unauthorized copies of your app using the same or similar names.
Will my current copyright certificate from the west work in China?
No. You need to apply for your copyright and trademark in China to get it protected within mainland China.
Who can apply for a Software Copyright Certificate?
Anyone. But keep in mind the filing process and reviewing process are conducted in Chinese. If you are unfamiliar with the process, it could take forever to approve it.
How many Software Copyright Certificates do I need?
The golden rule is one Software Copyright Certificate per app.
How long does it take to receive a Software Copyright Certificate?
It needs 30+ working days after the application is accepted. If you are new to this procedure or plan to do it yourself, the estimated time is 1 to 2 months because preparing the required material takes time and is not easy to get right at first.
Why do I need to provide a source code sample to register a Software Copyright Certificate?
It is the required procedure by the Copyright Protection Center of China. The intention is to show you own the software or the app. During the application review process, the reviewer will assess the sample codes and the software manual you submitted, and all that will be part of the proof you own the software. The SSC also serves as your protection for your software in China.
Can I get a Software Copyright Certificate if I’m not a Chinese company?
Yes. The copyright owner can be a foreign company or a legal person. Still, you must submit legal proof certified by the local Chinese consulate or notarized by the local notary office.
How can we help you?
We help companies’ apps and websites perform faster and fully compliant in China.
Clients like Bottega Veneta, Ethereum, Netlify, and many others have partnered with us to support their services and clients in China.
Contact us today, and our experts will explain all you need to know to get mobile apps to publish in China legitimately.
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