✓ Application number issued within 1–2 working days. You can begin using the ™ symbol immediately after filing. The ® symbol is used only after the registration certificate is granted.
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is a unique identifier for your brand — a word, logo, tagline, packaging design, colour combination, or any combination. Once registered under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, it gives you the exclusive right to use that mark for your goods or services across India.
A registered trademark is one of your most valuable business assets. It distinguishes your products from competitors, builds customer trust, and gives you enforceable legal rights to stop others from copying your brand identity. On platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, a registered brand prevents similarly-named sellers from operating alongside you.
Important: Registering a company name under the Companies Act does not protect your brand as a trademark. A separate trademark registration under the Trade Marks Act, 1999 is required.
Benefits of Trademark Registration
- Exclusive right to use the mark for your goods and services across India
- Legal proof of ownership — certificate enforceable in court
- Right to use the ® symbol — signals registered status to competitors
- Protection against copying, imitation and passing off
- Right to file infringement suits and claim financial damages
- Valuable business asset — can be licensed, assigned or sold
- Brand protection on e-commerce platforms — prevents similar sellers
- Valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely every decade
Trademark Registration Process
The complete process involves several stages before the Trade Marks Registry. Timely follow-up is critical at every stage. We handle everything from initial search to final registration certificate.
Consultation & Search
Free consultation and trademark availability search before filing
Filing Application
Online application filed within 24 hours of receiving documents
Examination
Examiner reviews application — examination report issued
Objection Reply
If objected, detailed reply filed within mandatory 30-day window
Journal Publication
Trademark published in Trade Marks Journal every Monday
Opposition Period
120-day window for third parties to oppose the application
Registration Grant
Registration certificate issued — ® symbol can now be used
Ongoing Protection
10-year protection, renewable every decade indefinitely
Timeline: Without objections or opposition, registration takes approximately 18–24 months. Your application number and the right to use ™ are available within 1–2 working days of filing.
Documents Required
TM Symbol vs ® Symbol
Using the correct symbol at each stage is important. Misuse of the ® symbol before registration is a punishable offence under Section 107 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Used from the date of filing. Indicates you are claiming trademark rights over the mark, even before registration is granted. No government approval needed to use the ™ symbol.
Used only after the trademark registration certificate is issued by the Registrar of Trade Marks. Misusing ® before registration is a punishable offence under the Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does trademark registration take in India?
Registration typically takes 18–24 months for straightforward applications without objections or oppositions. However, your application number is issued within 1–2 working days, and you can immediately start using the ™ symbol from the date of filing.
For how long is a trademark valid?
A trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the date of application. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by paying the prescribed renewal fees before the expiry date.
Can I file a trademark in multiple classes?
Yes. India follows the Nice Classification system with 45 classes — 34 for goods and 11 for services. You must file in each class relevant to your business. We advise on the most appropriate class(es) based on your specific goods and services.
What is the difference between trademark and copyright?
A trademark (™/®) protects your brand identity — name, logo and slogan. A copyright (©) protects original creative works — artistic logo designs, literary works and music. For comprehensive protection of a branded logo, both trademark and copyright registration are strongly recommended.
What if my trademark application gets objected?
If the examiner raises an objection, a reply must be filed within 30 days of the examination report. We draft a detailed, customised reply addressing each ground of objection. If not accepted, the matter proceeds to a hearing before the Trade Marks Registry.
Official Resource: For official information, visit the Trade Marks Registry, IP India — the authoritative government source for IP matters in India.