Trademark Registration in India: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your brand name and logo are among the most valuable things your business owns. A registered trademark gives you the exclusive right to use them for your goods or services and a strong legal basis to stop others from copying them. Here is how the process works in India.

What can be registered as a trademark?

• Brand names and words
• Logos and symbols
• Slogans and taglines
• Combinations of words, colours and designs
• In certain cases, shapes, sounds and packaging

Step 1: Choose a distinctive mark

Marks that are invented or unusual (like a coined word) are easier to register than descriptive ones. A name that simply describes the product or its quality – for example “Best Tea” for tea – is likely to be refused.

Step 2: Search existing trademarks

Before filing, search the trademark registry for identical or similar marks in the same class. A careful search reduces the risk of objections and oppositions later.

Step 3: Select the right class

Goods and services are divided into 45 classes (34 for goods and 11 for services). Your protection covers only the classes you file in, so choosing the correct class – and the right description of goods or services – is essential.

Step 4: File the application

The application is filed online with details of the applicant, the mark, the class and whether the mark is already in use. Individuals, startups and small enterprises pay a lower government fee than other applicants. Once filed, you can start using the ™ symbol with your mark.

Step 5: Examination

The Trade Marks Registry examines the application and may raise objections – for example that the mark is descriptive (Section 9) or similar to an existing mark (Section 11). A well-argued reply, supported by evidence of use, often resolves the objection. See trademark objection reply.

Step 6: Publication and opposition

Accepted marks are published in the Trade Marks Journal. Anyone who believes the mark conflicts with theirs can file an opposition within the prescribed period.

Step 7: Registration

If there is no opposition, or the opposition is decided in your favour, the mark is registered and a certificate is issued. You can now use the ® symbol.

Step 8: Renew every 10 years

A registered trademark is valid for ten years and can be renewed every ten years indefinitely. See trademark renewal.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using the ® symbol before registration – this is an offence.
• Filing in the wrong class or with a vague description.
• Skipping the search and discovering a conflict later.
• Missing the deadline to reply to an examination report.

Protect your brand with our trademark registration service.

Why Choose Vaidam Consultancy?

Our team of chartered accountants, company secretaries and legal professionals handles the paperwork so you can focus on growing your business.

🌐 100% Online Process

Share documents from anywhere — no office visits needed.

📋 Deadline Tracking

We remind you before every due date, so you never pay avoidable late fees.

💬 Expert Guidance

Speak directly with a professional for advice that fits your situation.

🚀 Quick Turnaround

Clear timelines and regular status updates from start to finish.

Call or WhatsApp us at +91 78369 69141 or email vaidamconsultancyllp@gmail.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long is a trademark valid in India?

Ten years from the date of application, renewable every ten years.

Q2. When can I use the ™ symbol?

As soon as your trademark application is filed.

Q3. Can I register a logo and a name together?

You can register them together as a combined mark, or separately for broader protection.

Q4. Do startups get a lower fee?

Yes. Individuals, startups and small enterprises pay a lower official fee than other applicants.