A trademark protects your brand name, logo or tagline from being used by others in your line of business. Registration is worth doing before you spend money on signage, packaging and marketing — discovering the name is already taken after you've built recognition around it is an expensive lesson.
Who this suits
- Businesses building a brand name customers will recognise
- Anyone investing in signage, packaging or advertising
- Businesses selling online, where name disputes are common
- Firms expanding into new states or markets
The process, step by step
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Trademark search
We search the register for identical and similar marks in your class. This is the step most people skip, and it's the one that prevents a rejection eight months later after fees have been paid.
1–2 working days -
Class selection
Goods and services are divided into 45 classes. Filing in the wrong class leaves your actual business unprotected. If you operate across categories, you may need to file in more than one, and each class carries its own government fee.
1 working day -
Filing Form TM-A
The application is filed with the mark, class, description of goods or services, and date of first use if the mark is already in use. You may use the ™ symbol from this point onward.
1 working day -
Examination
The Registry examines the application and issues an examination report. If objections are raised, a written reply is required within the prescribed time, and a hearing may follow.
3–12 months -
Publication in the Trade Marks Journal
Once accepted, the mark is published. Third parties have four months to oppose it. Most applications pass this stage unopposed.
4 months -
Registration certificate
If unopposed, the certificate is issued. Registration is valid for ten years and renewable indefinitely. You may use the ® symbol from this point.
On completion
Requirements
Government fees are charged per class and per applicant. Individuals, start-ups and MSMEs with Udyam registration pay a reduced government fee, so it is worth obtaining Udyam registration first if you don't have it.
Questions we get asked
How long does trademark registration take?
Anywhere from 12 to 24 months if unopposed. That sounds long, but protection dates back to your filing date, and you can use the ™ symbol immediately on filing.
What's the government fee on top of your ₹9,000?
It is charged per class and depends on whether you qualify for the reduced rate available to individuals, start-ups and MSMEs. We confirm the exact figure for your case before filing.
Can I use ™ before registration?
Yes. ™ can be used from the date of filing. ® can only be used once the mark is actually registered — using it earlier is an offence.
What if my application is objected to?
Objections are common and usually answerable. We prepare and file the reply, and appear at the hearing if one is scheduled.
Does it protect me across all of India?
Yes. A registered Indian trademark applies nationally. Protection abroad requires separate filing in each country or through an international application.
You may also need
Private Limited Company
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₹12,000 See the process →ISO Certification
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₹7,500 See the process →GST Registration
Mandatory above the turnover thresholds, and often needed below them
₹2,000 See the process →Ready to start?
Send us your details and we'll confirm the documents needed and the total cost.