In today’s competitive market, your brand identity is your biggest asset. From logos to taglines, businesses invest heavily in building recognition. But what if someone copies your brand name or logo? This is where Trademark Registration in India becomes essential. A registered trademark not only protects your brand legally but also builds customer trust.
According to the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM), India received over 4.5 lakh trademark applications in 2022-23, showing how businesses are increasingly prioritizing intellectual property.
In this blog, we’ll cover the complete guide to trademark registration in India — process, benefits, costs, documents required, and expert tips to secure your brand.
A trademark is a symbol, word, design, or combination that differentiates your goods or services from competitors. Trademark Registration gives you exclusive legal rights over its usage.
In India, trademarks are governed by the Trade Marks Act, 1999, and registered under the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks.
Examples of trademarks include:
Brand names (e.g., Amul, Tata)
Logos (e.g., Nike Swoosh, Apple logo)
Taglines (e.g., Just Do It)
Unique packaging designs
Registering your trademark comes with multiple advantages:
Legal Protection – Prevents unauthorized use of your brand.
Exclusive Rights – Grants ownership across India.
Business Credibility – Enhances customer trust and loyalty.
Asset Creation – Becomes a valuable intangible asset.
Brand Expansion – Helps in franchising and licensing opportunities.
Global Reach – Easier to register trademarks internationally.
💡 Did you know? Coca-Cola’s trademark value alone is estimated at over $80 billion — proving how powerful a brand asset can be.
Trademark registration is not limited to large companies. Anyone engaged in business can apply, including:
Individuals
Partnership firms
Private Limited Companies
LLPs
Trusts & Societies
When applying, you can register different types depending on your brand identity:
Word Mark – Protects brand names like Infosys.
Logo & Symbol – Protects unique symbols or images.
Tagline – E.g., Because You’re Worth It (L’Oréal).
Shape of Goods – Example: Coca-Cola’s unique bottle.
Sound Marks – Nokia’s tune or IPL theme music.
Trademarks are divided into 45 different classes, each representing a category of goods or services. For example:
Class 3: Cosmetics and cleaning products
Class 9: Software, electronics
Class 25: Clothing, footwear
Class 43: Restaurants, hospitality
👉 Selecting the right class is crucial for protection. Filing under the wrong class may lead to rejection.
The process is simple but requires attention to detail:
Conduct a trademark availability search on the IP India website.
Avoid conflicts with already registered trademarks.
File Form TM-A with the Trademark Registrar.
Application can be filed online or offline.
The Trademark Examiner reviews the application.
Objections (if any) are raised under Section 9 or Section 11.
Accepted applications are published in the Trademark Journal.
Public can oppose within 4 months.
If no objections are raised, you receive a Trademark Registration Certificate.
Applicant’s identity proof (PAN, Aadhaar, Passport)
Business registration documents (Partnership deed, Incorporation certificate)
Logo or brand name (in JPEG format)
Power of Attorney (if filed by an agent/lawyer)
Processing Time: 6 to 18 months (depending on objections/oppositions).
Validity: 10 years from registration date.
Renewal: Can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
| Applicant Type | Government Fee (per class) | Professional Fee (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Individual/Startup/SME | ₹4,500 – ₹5,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 |
| Company/LLP/Partnership | ₹9,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 |
💡 Filing through a professional helps avoid mistakes and reduces rejection chances.
Similarity with existing trademarks
Generic or descriptive words (e.g., “Best Soap”)
Offensive or prohibited names
Incorrect class selection
Choose a unique and distinctive brand name.
Conduct a comprehensive trademark search before filing.
Register in multiple classes if your business spans across categories.
File early to establish priority.
A trademark is more than just a legal registration — it’s your brand’s identity and reputation. Without protection, you risk losing your uniqueness and business value. By understanding the process of trademark registration in India, you can safeguard your brand, enhance credibility, and expand confidently.
👉 Ready to protect your brand? Start your trademark registration today and secure your identity for the future.