Trademark & Intellectual Property Registration Guide

Legal Guide

Protecting Your Intellectual Property in India


Intellectual Property (IP) protection is critical for entrepreneurs to safeguard their brand, inventions, and creative works.


Trademark Registration

A trademark protects your brand name, logo, tagline, or any distinctive mark.


Process:

  • Search for existing trademarks on ipindiaonline.gov.in
  • File TM-A application online through IP India portal
  • Pay filing fee: ₹4,500 (individual/startup) or ₹9,000 (others)
  • Examination by Trademark Registrar within 30-60 days
  • Publication in Trademark Journal for 4-month opposition period
  • Registration certificate issued if no opposition
  • Total timeline: 8-12 months
  • Valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely

  • DPIIT-recognized startups get:

  • Fast-tracked examination (expedited processing)
  • 50% fee reduction
  • Facilitation through Startup India IP facilitation centre

  • Patent Registration

    Process:

  • File patent application (provisional or complete) at ipindia.gov.in
  • Publication after 18 months (or early publication on request)
  • Request for examination within 48 months
  • Examination and response to objections
  • Patent grant — valid for 20 years

  • Fees: ₹1,600 (natural person/startup) to ₹8,000 (others)


    Copyright Registration

  • Register at copyright.gov.in
  • Protects literary, artistic, musical, and software works
  • Fee: ₹500-5,000 depending on type
  • Duration: Author's lifetime + 60 years

  • Design Registration

  • Protects visual design of articles
  • Register at ipindia.gov.in
  • Fee: ₹1,000-4,000
  • Valid for 10 years, renewable for 5 more
  • Key Takeaways

    • Trademark registration costs ₹4,500 for startups (50% discount)
    • DPIIT-recognized startups get fast-tracked IP examination
    • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely
    • Patents are valid for 20 years from filing date
    • Search for existing trademarks before filing to avoid rejection

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    Disclaimer

    This guide is provided for informational and educational purposes only. EduMetrics is not a legal, tax, or financial advisor. Regulations, procedures, and fees are subject to change. Please verify all information on the respective official portals and consult a qualified professional before taking any action.