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Trademark Registration

Thu, Jun 12 2025

Shubham bansal

Trademark Registration Process: A Detailed Walkthrough (2025 Guide)

What is Trademark Registration and Why It Matters

In India, trademark registration is a legal process that gives businesses the exclusive right to use their brand name, logo, or symbol. A trademark sets your products or services apart from competitors, builds brand identity, and protects your intellectual property.

Whether you run a small business or a growing startup, securing a trademark registration in India helps you protect your brand from misuse and build trust among customers. With increasing online competition, trademark registration is now more crucial than ever.

Step-by-Step Trademark Registration Process in India

The trademark registration process in India is governed by the Trademarks Act, 1999, and is handled by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks. Here's a detailed step-by-step breakdown:

1. Trademark Search

Before applying, conduct a trademark search in India on the IP India website. This ensures your desired name or logo isn’t already registered or too similar to an existing trademark.

2. Choose the Right Trademark Class

Trademarks are divided into 45 classes. Identify the correct class for your product or service. Incorrect classification can delay or reject your application.

3. Prepare and File the Application

File Form TM-A either online or offline with details like applicant info, brand logo, description, and class. You can apply as an individual, company, or LLP.

4. Examination by Trademark Office

The trademark office will review your application and may raise objections under Section 9 or 11.

5. Reply to Examination Report

You must reply within 30 days of receiving the report. If accepted, the application proceeds to publication.

6. Trademark Publication in the Journal

Your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for 4 months, allowing the public to oppose it.

7. Registration Certificate

If no opposition is filed or opposition is resolved, the Registrar issues a Trademark Registration Certificate. You can now legally use the ® symbol.

How to file a trademark in India step by step:

Conduct a trademark search → Choose correct class → File Form TM-A → Examination → Reply to objections → Journal publication → Get registration certificate.

Documents Required for Trademark Registration

To complete your application, the following documents are typically required:

  • Applicant’s identity and address proof
  • Business registration proof (e.g., GST, Udyam, Company Incorporation)
  • Logo or brand design in JPEG format
  • Signed power of attorney (Form TM-48)
  • Proof of use (if applicable)

Having the documents required for trademark registration ready in advance ensures a faster application process.

Trademark Search: How to Do It Properly

Doing a trademark search in India prevents legal disputes and wasted costs. Use the IP India trademark search tool to:

  • Search by wordmark, class, and phonetic match
  • Avoid names already registered or under objection
  • Choose a unique and protectable trademark

A professional search increases your chances of approval and protects your brand legally.

Online vs Offline Trademark Registration

Most applicants now prefer online trademark registration due to speed, tracking features, and ease of communication. Offline filing is only advised if digital access is limited. | Feature | Online Filing | Offline Filing | | ------- | ----------------- | ------------------- | | Speed | Fast | Slower | | Access | Anywhere in India | Must visit registry | | Updates | Email/SMS | Manual follow-up | | Cost | Slightly lower | Higher admin fees |

Can I register a trademark online myself?

Yes, individuals can file a trademark online via the IP India portal. However, professional help is advised to avoid errors and rejection.

Trademark Registration Fees and Timeline

The trademark registration fees in India vary based on applicant type: | Applicant Type | Fee (Per Class) | | ----------------------------------- | ----------------------------------- | | Individual/Startup/Small Enterprise | ₹4,500 (online) / ₹5,000 (offline) | | Others (Company/LLP) | ₹9,000 (online) / ₹10,000 (offline) |

The time taken for trademark registration in India usually ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on objections, oppositions, and response time.

What is the cost of trademark registration in India?

It starts at ₹4,500 for individuals/startups and goes up to ₹9,000 for companies (per class).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common errors can improve your success rate:

  • Not conducting a thorough trademark search
  • Choosing the wrong class of goods/services
  • Incomplete application or wrong details
  • Ignoring objections or opposition notices
  • Delayed replies to examination report

Understanding how to register a trademark correctly from the start saves time and money.

Benefits of Registering a Trademark

Registering a trademark provides legal protection and branding advantages:

  • Legal Ownership: Exclusive right to use your brand nationwide
  • Brand Recognition: Builds identity and trust
  • Deters Copycats: Legal backing to sue infringers
  • Asset Creation: Your trademark becomes a business asset
  • Global Reach: Basis for international filings under Madrid Protocol

These benefits of trademark registration are crucial for both startups and large businesses in India.

Difference Between ™ and ® Symbols in India

  • ™ (Trademark): Can be used once you file the application. It shows you claim the brand, but it's not officially registered.
  • ® (Registered): Use this symbol only after you receive the final registration certificate. It shows full legal ownership.
Difference between ™ and ® symbol in India:

™ is for applied trademarks, ® is for officially registered trademarks.

Get Expert Help for Trademark Registration in India

While the process is straightforward, mistakes can lead to rejections or delays. If you want to ensure a smooth experience, it's best to consult a trademark expert.

At PSR Compliance, we help individuals and businesses with online trademark registration in India, from search to certification — end-to-end support at affordable rates.

  • Visit our Trademark Registration Page
  • Get your brand protected today!

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