Trademark Registration in India 2026: Complete Process, Classes, and Fees

A trademark protects your brand name, logo, slogan, or other distinctive mark, giving you exclusive rights to use it for your goods or services. For businesses and entrepreneurs in India, registering a trademark is a key step to protect your brand and prevent others from using it. This guide explains the process for 2026.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a distinctive sign capable of distinguishing your goods or services from others. It can include a word, phrase, symbol, design, logo, sound, or combination. Registration gives you the exclusive right to use the mark and to take legal action against infringers.

Why Register a Trademark?

Exclusive rights to use the mark in your class
Legal protection against unauthorized use
Brand value and the ability to license or sell the mark
Right to use the ® symbol (after registration)
Protection across India (for a registered mark)

The 45 Trademark Classes

Trademarks are categorized into 45 classes based on the type of goods (classes 1-34) or services (classes 35-45). Examples:

Class 25: Clothing, footwear, headgear
Class 30: Coffee, tea, bakery products, confectionery
Class 35: Advertising, business management, retail services
Class 42: Software, IT services, scientific services
Class 43: Food and drink services (restaurants, cafes)

You should register your mark in the class(es) relevant to your business. You may need multiple classes if your business spans different categories.

How to Choose a Strong Trademark

Distinctive marks (invented words, unique logos) are easier to register
Generic or descriptive terms (e.g., "Best Coffee") are hard to register
Search the trademark database before applying to avoid conflicts with existing marks
Conduct a thorough search across similar classes

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

Search the IP India trademark database to check if a similar mark already exists in your class. This reduces the risk of objection or rejection.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Your trademark (word, logo, or both)
The class(es) of goods/services
Applicant details (individual or company) and address
Proof of use or intention to use

Step 3: File the Application

File online through the IP India portal: https://ipindia.gov.in/

Fill the application (Form TM-A)
Pay the prescribed fee
Fees depend on the applicant type (individual/startup/small entity vs others) and number of classes

Step 4: Examination

The Registrar examines the application for distinctiveness and conflicts. You may receive:

Acceptance — proceeds to publication
Objection — you must respond with arguments (within the given time)
Show cause hearing — if needed

Step 5: Publication

The mark is published in the Trademark Journal. Third parties have a window (typically 4 months) to oppose registration.

Step 6: Registration

If no opposition (or after opposition is resolved), the trademark is registered and a registration certificate is issued. Registration is valid for 10 years and renewable.

Fees for 2026

Fees vary by applicant type and number of classes:

Individual/Startup/Small Enterprise: A single class fee is lower (roughly Rs 4,500), with reduced fees for these categories
Others (companies, large entities): Higher fee per class (roughly Rs 9,000)
Form TM-M (post-registration): For renewals, etc.

Fees are revised periodically. Confirm the current fee schedule on the official IP India website.

Timelines

Application filing to examination: A few months
If no objection: Registration can take roughly 8-18 months from filing
Objections/oppositions can extend the timeline significantly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not searching first. Applying with a conflicting mark wastes time and money.
Choosing a descriptive or generic mark. These are hard to register.
Registering in the wrong class. Select all relevant classes.
Ignoring objections. Failing to respond within the deadline abandons the application.
Not renewing. Registration lapses after 10 years if not renewed.

Official References

IP India Trademarks: https://ipindia.gov.in/trade-marks.htm
Trademark search: https://ipindia.gov.in/

Trademark fees, forms, and procedures are updated periodically by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks. Confirm current requirements on the official IP India website or consult an intellectual property attorney.