Trademark Registration

A Trademark is a unique sign, logo, word, or phrase that identifies your brand. Registration gives you exclusive legal rights, protection against infringement, and builds brand value. It is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

The entire process takes 12-18 months. However, you can use the TM symbol (™) immediately after filing. Stages: TM-A filing (1-2 days), Examination (3-6 months), Journal Publication (3-4 months), Certificate (1-2 months).

Trademark classification is based on the International NICE Classification (45 Classes — 1-34 for products, 35-45 for services). Examples: Class 25 (garments), Class 35 (advertising/business), Class 41 (education), Class 42 (IT services). We help select the right Class.

Yes, you can use ™ with your brand name or logo even before registration. Once you file TM-A, you continue using ™ with the Application Number. Only after full registration can you use ® (Registered Symbol).

™ (Unregistered Trademark) can be used by anyone claiming a brand. ® (Registered Trademark) can only be used after the trademark is officially registered with the Trademark Registry. Misuse of ® can result in legal penalties.

If a third party opposes your trademark after journal publication, we assist with filing a Counter-Statement (TM-O form) and preparing legal arguments. Our team handles the entire opposition process on your behalf.

Yes, India allows registration of non-conventional trademarks including sounds, smells, colours, shapes, and even holograms, provided they have distinctive character. Sound marks (like jingles) can be filed with an audio file, and colour marks can be filed if they have acquired distinctiveness through use. Our team can advise on the registrability of non-conventional marks.

The government fee for trademark filing depends on the applicant type: for individuals, startups, and small enterprises — ₹4,500 per class per application (for e-filing); for large companies and others — ₹9,000 per class per application. Additional classes incur extra fees. These fees are subject to change as per the Trademark Rules.

Yes, foreign companies and individuals can register trademarks in India. They can file an application directly through a trademark agent in India or claim priority under the Paris Convention or through an international application under the Madrid Protocol within 6 months of filing in their home country. We assist foreign clients with the complete Indian trademark registration process.

A trademark search helps determine if your proposed mark is already registered or applied for by someone else. It reduces the risk of objection or opposition, saves time and money, and helps you avoid infringement claims. A comprehensive search covers the Trademark Registry database for identical and similar marks across relevant classes. We conduct a thorough search before every filing.

A registered trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of registration. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by filing the TM-R form and paying the renewal fee. As long as you renew on time, your trademark remains protected forever. Non-renewal results in the trademark being removed from the register and loss of exclusive rights.