Costs and Timeline for Trademark Registration in India: A Complete Guide
Trademark registration is an essential step for businesses and individuals to protect their brand identity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small business owner, or running a large company, registering your trademark gives you exclusive rights to your brand name or logo, ensuring legal protection from infringement. However, navigating the process can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll outline the costs, timeline, and available service packages to help you make an informed decision.
Costs of Trademark Registration in India
The cost of registering a trademark in India depends on the type of applicant. Here’s a quick look at the official fees:
- For Individuals, Startups, and Small Enterprises: ₹4500 per class of goods or services.
- For Companies: ₹9000 per class of goods or services.
These fees are for filing the application. Additional legal or professional costs may apply depending on the complexity of your case, and the type of service you choose.
Trademark Registration Timeline
The timeline for trademark registration typically ranges between 12 to 18 months, depending on various factors like objections, oppositions, or hearing schedules. The good news is, your trademark is protected from the date of filing the application. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Filing of Application: Once you submit your trademark application, you get an immediate application number and protection begins.
- Examination Report: Within 3-6 months, the Trademark Office issues an examination report outlining any objections or concerns.
- Trademark Hearing (if required): If objections are raised, a hearing might be scheduled, which may delay the process.
- Registration Certificate: If there are no objections or oppositions, your trademark will be registered within 12-18 months.
Service Packages for Trademark Registration
To simplify the trademark registration process, professional service providers offer various packages. These packages cater to different levels of complexity and assistance required throughout the registration journey.
Silver Pack – ₹1500
The Silver Pack is ideal for individuals or startups looking for a basic trademark filing service. It includes the essential steps to get your application submitted:
- Public Search and Availability Check
- Selection of Class (according to Nice Classification)
- Drafting and Filing of Trademark Application
- Drafting of User Affidavit (if applicable)
- Delivery of Trademark Application Number
- Regular Status Tracking
- Follow-up on Examination Report
- Filing of Reply to Examination Report (if objections arise)
This is a budget-friendly option, great for applicants whose applications are likely to proceed without major issues.
Gold Pack – ₹2500
The Gold Pack includes everything in the Silver Pack, plus additional support for cases where objections are raised or hearings are required:
- Public Search and Availability Check
- Selection of Class (according to Nice Classification)
- Drafting and Filing of Trademark Application
- Drafting of User Affidavit (if applicable)
- Delivery of Trademark Application Number
- Regular Status Tracking
- Follow-up on Examination Report
- Filing of Reply to Examination Report (if objections arise)
- Attending Trademark Hearing (if the matter is fixed for hearing)
This package is recommended for those who anticipate complications in the registration process and need more comprehensive legal support.
Diamond Pack – ₹12,000 (Most Recommended)
The Diamond Pack is the most extensive service package, offering end-to-end trademark registration support, including opposition handling. If you’re concerned about objections from third parties, this package ensures complete assistance:
- Public Search and Availability Check
- Selection of Class (according to Nice Classification)
- Drafting and Filing of Trademark Application
- Drafting of User Affidavit (if applicable)
- Delivery of Trademark Application Number
- Regular Status Tracking
- Follow-up on Examination Report
- Filing of Reply to Examination Report (if objections arise)
- Attending Trademark Hearing (if the matter is fixed for hearing)
- Filing or Defending Opposition (in case of third-party objections)
The Diamond Pack offers the highest level of support and is ideal for businesses with complex trademark issues or who expect oppositions during the registration process.
Why Should You Register Your Trademark?
Registering your trademark provides numerous benefits, including:
- Exclusive Legal Rights: You get exclusive rights to use your trademark in connection with the goods or services you provide.
- Brand Protection: A registered trademark helps prevent others from using a similar brand name or logo, protecting your brand identity.
- Valuable Asset: A trademark becomes a valuable business asset that can be licensed or sold.
- Nationwide Coverage: Trademark registration provides protection across India, ensuring your brand is safeguarded no matter where you operate.
Conclusion
Trademark registration is a crucial step in building and protecting your brand. The process may take time, but with the right guidance and service package, it can be a smooth journey. Whether you choose the Silver, Gold, or Diamond Pack, each package offers tailored services to meet your needs. From basic application filing to handling oppositions, you can ensure your brand gets the legal protection it deserves.
If you’re ready to secure your brand, consider the package that best fits your requirements, and start the trademark registration process today!