In the ever-expanding digital economy, your brand is everything. It’s not just a name or a logo—it’s your business identity, your credibility, and in many ways, your biggest asset. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a growing enterprise, securing your brand through a trademark is non-negotiable.
And here’s the good news: registering a trademark in India has never been easier, thanks to the online process introduced by the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trademarks (CGPDTM). In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to register a trademark in India online—step by step.
Let’s proceed. Let’s protect your brand before someone else does.
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is any recognisable sign, design, or expression which distinguishes products or services of a particular source from those of others. In simpler terms, it’s what sets your business apart.
A trademark can include:
- Brand names
- Logos
- Taglines or slogans
- Shapes, sounds, and even colours (in some cases)
You will often see the ™ symbol used to indicate a pending trademark application, while ® means the trademark is officially registered.
Trademarks create trust, inspire consumer loyalty, and are often the first thing customers recognise in a crowded market. Think Apple’s half-bitten fruit or Nike’s swoosh—powerful, memorable, and protected.
Who Can Apply for a Trademark in India?
One of the most empowering aspects of India’s trademark system is its inclusivity. Almost anyone can apply:
- Individuals (even if you’re not running a business yet)
- Startups and MSMEs
- Partnership firms and LLPs
- Private limited companies
- Trusts, NGOs, and societies
- Foreign nationals and companies
In short: if you have got a brand, you can protect it.
Pre-Registration Checklist
Before you head to the e-filing portal, some groundwork is essential.
1. Conduct a Trademark Search
A quick search on the IP India Public Search Tool helps ensure that no one else has already registered or applied for a similar trademark. This is your first line of defence against rejection or future litigation.
A basic search can be done within a day, although detailed professional searches may take 1–2 weeks depending on complexity.
2. Choose the Right Trademark Class
India follows the Nice Classification system, which includes 45 classes of goods and services. For example:
- Class 9 – Software & Electronics
- Class 25 – Clothing
- Class 35 – Advertising & Business Services
You can apply under multiple classes, depending on your business scope.
3. Gather Required Documents
Here’s what you will typically need:
- Applicant’s identity proof (PAN, Aadhaar, Passport)
- Business registration certificate (if applicable)
- Logo (optional, but recommended)
- Power of Attorney (if filing through an agent)
- Signed Form TM-48 (for agents/attorneys)
Step-by-Step Guide to Online Trademark Registration in India
Let’s get to the action. Here’s how to register your trademark from the comfort of your laptop:
Step 1: Visit the IP India Trademark E-Filing Portal
Go to https://ipindiaonline.gov.in. This is the official site for all IP-related registrations in India.
Step 2: Create an Account
Register as a new user by providing your basic details. If you’re an individual, choose “Proprietor.” If you are a company or filing via an agent, select accordingly.
Step 3: Fill Out Form TM-A
Form TM-A is the official application form for registering a trademark. Here, you will enter:
- Applicant’s name and address
- Trademark image or word
- Description of goods/services
- Class under which the trademark is filed
Step 4: Attach Supporting Documents
Upload your ID proof, business documents and TM-48 form if you are using an attorney. If you are filing as a startup or MSME, upload your Udyam Registration to qualify for fee concessions.
Step 5: Digitally Sign and Submit
You’ll need a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to file the form. Once uploaded and signed, you can proceed to payment.
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
As of 2024–25, the official fees are:
- Online Filing: ₹4,500 per class for individuals, startups, and MSMEs
- ₹9,000 per class for companies, LLPs, and others
- Physical Filing: ₹5,000 and ₹10,000 respectively (not recommended unless necessary)
Payment can be made via debit/credit card, UPI or net banking.
Done! You will receive an acknowledgement with an application number that can be used to track your status.
What Happens After You File the Trademark Application?
Your journey doesn’t end at submission. Here’s what happens behind the scenes:
1. Application Review
The Trademark Office examines your application for correctness and checks for similarity with existing marks.
2. Examination Report
If everything’s in order, the application proceeds. If not, you may receive an objection under Section 9 (descriptive) or Section 11 (similar/confusing mark). Don’t panic—it’s common and often resolvable.
3. Reply to Objection
You will need to respond to the examination report within 30 days, possibly by submitting a written explanation or attending a hearing.
4. Journal Publication
Once accepted, your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for a period of 4 months, giving third parties the opportunity to oppose.
5. Opposition (if any)
If no one objects during this period—or if you successfully overcome opposition—your trademark proceeds to registration.
6. Trademark Registration Certificate
Congratulations! Your trademark is now officially registered for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
Estimated Timeline and Costs for Trademark Registration
| Stage | Timeline | Cost (Individual/Startup) | Cost (Company/LLP) |
| Trademark Search | 1 day – 1 week | Free | Free |
| Filing Application | Immediate | ₹4,500 per class | ₹9,000 per class |
| Expedited (TM‑M) Filing | Optional (~3–6 mo) | ~₹20,000+ | ~₹45,000+ |
| Examination & Response | 1–3 months | Varies (if objected) | Varies |
| Journal Publication | 4 months | Included | Included |
| Final Registration | 6–24 months total | Included | Included |
Estimated Professional Fees: If you hire a lawyer or trademark agent, expect to pay an additional ₹2,000 to ₹15,000 depending on complexity and experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Online Registration
Here are the pitfalls you don’t want to fall into:
- Filing under the wrong class
- Using overly generic names like “Fresh Water” for bottled water
- Skipping or doing a poor trademark search
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Ignoring deadlines for examination replies or hearings
Advantages of Registering a Trademark Online
Still on the fence? Here’s why online registration is worth every rupee:
- Brand Protection: Legal shield against imitation and misuse
- National Recognition: Coverage across India
- Legal Standing: Makes it easier to enforce your rights
- Valuation Boost: Adds value to your balance sheet
- Scalability: Facilitates franchising, licensing, and investor interest
Final Thoughts:
In a digital-first, IP-driven economy, securing your brand through trademark registration is no longer optional—it’s strategic. From fending off copycats to enhancing business value, the benefits are enormous. And with India’s online trademark registration process now streamlined and user-friendly, there’s no reason to delay.
Whether you do it yourself or seek professional help, one thing’s clear: The best time to register your trademark was yesterday. The next best time is now.
Protect your name. Own your brand. File that trademark.
