Trademark applications can be submitted online via the TM portal or offline at Registry offices. All physical applications are digitized upon receipt and merged into the centralized electronic system. This ensures seamless, paperless processing from start to finish.

Pre-Examination: VIENNA Codification

If the mark includes logos, designs, or figurative elements, they are classified using the VIENNA Agreement codes by trained staff. This step is skipped for word marks (text only). All applications — whether requiring codification or not — are processed strictly in order of filing date to maintain fairness and priority.

Examination: Two-Tier Review System

Applications are automatically assigned to Examiners based on filing sequence. The Examiner prepares a detailed report checking compliance with the Trade Marks Act, 1999. This report is then forwarded to the Examination Controller for final review. The Controller either approves it for issuance or returns it with observations for correction. Only approved reports are sent to the applicant.

Outcome of Examination

• Accepted: Mark is cleared for publication in the Trade Marks Journal.
• Objected: Applicant receives an Examination Report listing grounds for refusal or conditions.

Reply to Examination Report

The applicant must file a response within 30 days from receipt of the report. Failure to reply results in abandonment of the application. All responses are examined by authorized officers in strict date-wise order of submission.

Show-Cause Hearing (If Objections Persist)

If objections are not waived after reply, the case is scheduled for a formal hearing. Hearing notices are auto-generated, and cases are assigned to Hearing Officers via the TM system. Scheduling follows chronological order based on the date of reply consideration.

Publication in TM Journal

Accepted marks are published online in the official Trade Marks Journal. A 4-month opposition period begins from the date of publication.

Registration (No Opposition)

If no opposition is filed (or if filed and dismissed), the mark is automatically registered. The digital registration certificate is issued through the system. The trademark remains valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.

Opposition Proceedings

Any third party may file opposition within 4 months. Both applicant and opponent are given a fair hearing. If opposition is rejected, registration proceeds. If allowed, the application is refused.

Post-Registration Management

Registered proprietors can update name, address, assign ownership, or record licensed users by filing prescribed forms with fees. Requests are processed within 30 days of compliance. In case of assignment, a 1-month notice is sent to the previous owner before final processing. Renewal requests are auto-processed by filing date.

All stages follow strict serial, date-priority processing as per Trade Marks Registry SOP to ensure transparency and efficiency.

To register a trademark in India, certain documents must be submitted along with the application. These documents include:

• Power of Attorney
  A power of attorney is a legal document authorizing a trademark agent or attorney to act on behalf of the applicant for the trademark registration process.
• Identity Proof
  The applicant must provide a copy of their identity proof, such as a passport or Aadhaar card.
• Address Proof
  The applicant must also provide a copy of their address proof, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
• Trademark Image
  The trademark image or logo in a JPEG format must be submitted along with the application. It must be clear and legible and should not exceed 8 cm x 8 cm in size.
• Priority Document
  A detailed description of the goods or services for which the trademark is being registered must be provided. If the application claims priority from a foreign trademark application, the priority document must be submitted.

It is important to note that these documents must be submitted accurately and completely to ensure a smooth and successful trademark registration process. Working with a reliable trademark registration service provider like India Advocacy can help ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly and on time.

Exclusive Legal Rights You gain the sole right to use your trademark for your products or services, ensuring others cannot legally use a similar mark.

• Strong Legal Protection
  A registered trademark allows you to take legal action against infringement or misuse, safeguarding your brand identity.
• Brand Recognition and Trust
  Registration builds customer confidence and helps people easily recognize and remember your brand.
• Valuable Business Asset
  Your trademark becomes an intangible asset that can be licensed, franchised, or sold, adding value to your business.
• Prevention of Unauthorized Use
  It deters competitors from copying or misusing your brand name, logo, or slogan.
• Nationwide and International Protection
  Registration offers protection across the country and helps in securing global recognition through international filings.
• Right to Use the ® Symbol
  You can legally display the ® symbol, showing that your brand is officially registered and protected.
• Long-Term Protection
  A trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely, offering lifelong protection for your brand.
• Supports Business Growth
  A registered trademark enhances credibility, attracts investors, and makes business expansion easier.

Select the appropriate class for your goods or services based on the Nice Classification system (used for trademark registration in India and many other countries).

Class 1
• Industrial chemicals, scientific materials, fertilizers, adhesives, fire suppressants, unprocessed plastics, and resins.
Class 2
• Paints, varnishes, lacquers, rust preventives, colorants, dyes, and metal powders for artists.
Class 3
• Laundry soaps, cleaning agents, cosmetics, perfumes, essential oils, hair lotions, and dentifrices.
Class 4
• Industrial oils, fuels, lubricants, candles, and lighting wicks.
Class 5
• Pharmaceuticals, veterinary preparations, dietetic foods, plasters, disinfectants, and pesticides.
Class 6
• Common metals, metal pipes, safes, hardware, and ores.
Class 7
• Machines, motors, tools, and agricultural implements (non-hand-operated).
Class 8
• Hand tools, cutlery, razors, and blades.
Class 9
• Scientific instruments, computers, software, cameras, data carriers, and fire extinguishers.
Class 10:
• Surgical, medical, dental apparatus, artificial limbs, and orthopedic articles.
Class 11:
• Lighting, heating, cooking, refrigerating, and water supply apparatus.
Class 12:
• Vehicles, vehicle parts, engines, and anti-theft devices.
Class 13:
• Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and pyrotechnics.
Class 14:
• Precious metals, jewelry, watches, and chronometric instruments.
Class 15:
• Musical instruments and their fittings.
Class 16:
• Paper goods, stationery, printed matter, adhesives, and artists' materials.
Class 17:
• Rubber, plastics, insulating materials, and non-metal pipes.
Class 18:
• Leather goods, bags, umbrellas, and saddlery.
Class 19:
• Non-metallic building materials, asphalt, and non-metal monuments.
Class 20:
• Furniture, mirrors, picture frames, and non-metallic fasteners.
Class 21:
• Household utensils, glassware, brushes, and cleaning articles.
Class 22:
• Ropes, nets, tents, sails, and padding materials.
Class 23:
• Yarns and threads for textiles.
Class 24:
• Textiles, bed covers, and table linens.
Class 25:
• Clothing, footwear, and headgear.
Class 26:
• Lace, embroidery, ribbons, buttons, and haberdashery.
Class 27:
• Carpets, rugs, mats, and floor coverings.
Class 27:
• Games, toys, sporting goods, and decorations for Christmas trees.
Class 29:
• Meat, fish, dairy products, edible oils, and preserved fruits.
Class 30:
• Coffee, tea, spices, bread, confectionery, and ice.
Class 31:
• Raw grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, live animals, and seeds.
Class 32:
• Beers, mineral waters, non-alcoholic drinks, and fruit juices.
Class 33:
• Alcoholic beverages (except beers), wines, and spirits.
Class 34:
• Tobacco, smokers' articles, and matches.
Class 35:
• Advertising, business management, retail services, and office functions.
Class 36:
• Insurance, financial affairs, monetary services, and real estate.
Class 37:
• Construction, repair, installation, cleaning, and maintenance services.
Class 38:
• Telecommunications, broadcasting, and data transmission.
Class 39:
• Transport, packaging, storage, and travel arrangements.
Class 40:
• Treatment of materials, printing, and recycling services.
Class 41:
• Education, entertainment, sporting, and cultural activities.
Class 42:
• Scientific research, IT services, and design.
Class 43:
• Food services, temporary accommodation, and restaurants.
Class 44:
• Medical, hygienic, beauty, and agricultural services.
Class 45:
• Legal services, security, and personal/social services.

Note: This is a simplified overview of the 45 international classes. For accurate trademark filing, refer to the official Nice Classification or consult a trademark professional.