Government fee per class
| Applicant | Government fee (e-filing) |
|---|---|
| Individual, startup or registered MSME | ₹4,500 per class |
| Others (companies, LLPs, firms not registered as MSME) | ₹9,000 per class |
A Udyam certificate lets a business pay the lower fee. See Udyam registration.
The process
- Search: check existing marks in the same and related classes to avoid conflict.
- Class selection: pick the right class or classes for your goods or services.
- Filing (TM-A): you get an application number and can use ™ immediately.
- Examination: the registry examines the mark and may raise objections.
- Objection reply: must be filed within 30 days of the examination report, followed by a hearing if needed.
- Journal publication: once accepted, the mark is published in the Trade Marks Journal.
- Opposition period: anyone can oppose within 4 months of publication.
- Registration: if there is no opposition, the registration certificate is issued and you can use ®.
How long it takes
Filing takes 1–2 days. If there are no objections or oppositions, registration usually takes several months to over a year, depending on the registry's workload. A registration is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
How to avoid objections
- Avoid generic or descriptive words such as “Best Tea” or “Pure Ghee”.
- Do not copy or closely imitate existing brands.
- File a logo along with the word mark when the word is common.
- Give the correct date of first use, with proof.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use ® after filing?
No. ® can be used only after registration. Use ™ from the filing date.
What happens if I miss the objection reply date?
The application can be treated as abandoned. Reply within 30 days of the examination report.
Do I need a separate application for each class?
Each class needs its own fee. A single multi-class application is possible, but the fee is charged per class.
Is a trademark registered in India valid abroad?
No. Protection is territorial. International filing is done separately, for example through the Madrid Protocol.
This guide is general information based on the law as on the date above. Rules and dates change through notifications, so check your own case with us before acting.