A registered trademark gives you the exclusive right to use your brand name, logo or slogan for the goods or services you registered it for, and the right to take action against copycats. Applications are filed online with the Trade Marks Registry (IP India). This guide covers the process, the current government fees and what to expect on timing.
What can be registered?
A word, name, logo, slogan, shape, sound or colour combination can be registered if it can be represented graphically, distinguishes your goods or services from others and is not misleading, generic or already taken. Names that merely describe the product, such as "Fresh Milk" for milk, are usually refused.
The trademark registration process
- Search first. Check the public search tool on the IP India website for identical or similar marks in your class. A clear search saves months and the filing fee.
- Choose your classes. Goods are in classes 1 to 34 and services in classes 35 to 45. One application covers one class, so a business selling products and offering services files in more than one.
- File Form TM-A online. Provide the applicant details, the mark, the list of goods or services and the date from which the mark has been used, if it is already in use.
- Use the TM symbol. Once the application is filed you can place the ™ symbol next to your brand. The ® symbol is allowed only after registration.
- Examination. The Registry examines the application and may issue an examination report with objections. You reply in writing and may be called for a hearing.
- Publication. An accepted mark is published in the Trade Marks Journal.
- Opposition period. Third parties have three months, extendable by one month, to oppose. If there is no opposition, or you win it, the mark proceeds.
- Registration. The Registry issues the registration certificate. Protection is counted from the date of filing.
Government fees (online filing)
- Application (TM-A): ₹4,500 per class for individuals, startups and small enterprises, and ₹9,000 per class for all other applicants.
- Renewal: ₹9,000 per class (online), with an additional ₹4,500 surcharge if renewed during the grace period after expiry.
- Opposition or counter-statement: ₹2,700 per class.
- Expedited examination: ₹20,000 per class for individuals, startups and small enterprises, and ₹40,000 per class for others.
These are IP India fees only. Professional charges for search, drafting, replying to objections and hearings are separate. Fees can change, so confirm on the IP India website before paying.
How long does it take?
An unopposed application commonly takes about 12 to 24 months from filing to registration, depending on the Registry workload, objections and hearings. If the mark is opposed, expect longer. Expedited examination shortens the examination stage for a higher fee.
Documents and details you need
- Name, address and constitution of the applicant (individual, company, LLP or firm).
- The logo in image format if you are registering a logo.
- A clear description of the goods or services in each class.
- Date of first use, with proof such as invoices or website screenshots, if the brand is already in use.
- A power of attorney if an agent or attorney files on your behalf.
- An Udyam certificate or startup recognition if you claim the reduced fee.
After registration
- A registration is valid for 10 years from the date of application and can be renewed every 10 years.
- Renewal can be filed up to 6 months before expiry. Missing the date puts the mark at risk of removal from the register.
- Watch the Trade Marks Journal and market for similar marks so you can oppose or act early.
- Record any assignment or licence of the mark with the Registry.
Common mistakes
- Filing without a search, then facing an objection or an opposition from an earlier owner.
- Registering only the logo when the word name is the real asset.
- Choosing the wrong class or a vague description that leaves your main product uncovered.
- Ignoring the examination report deadline.
Need help?
SS Auditors handles trademark search, filing, replies to objections and renewals. See trademark registration, trademark objection replies or contact us.
Last reviewed October 2026. This article is general information, not advice for your specific case. Fees and procedures change, so confirm on the IP India website before filing.