Documents Required for Trademark Registration in India

Overview of Trademark Registration in India

A trademark is a unique symbol, word, logo, or combination that identifies and distinguishes the goods or services of one business from another. Registering your trademark with the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks gives you exclusive legal rights to use the mark across India for 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

The Trademark Registration process in India is governed by the Trade Marks Act, 1999 and the Trade Marks Rules, 2017. The Ledger Company provides this detailed checklist to help you prepare all required documents for a smooth registration process.

Documents Required: By Entity Type

For Individuals / Sole Proprietors

For Partnership Firms

For Companies (Private Limited / Public Limited / OPC)

For LLPs

Understanding Form TM-A (Application Form)

Form TM-A is the primary application form for trademark registration. Key details to be filled include:

• Applicant Details: Name, address, nationality, and type of entity
• Trademark Representation: Word mark, logo, or combination
• Class of Goods/Services: Select the appropriate class(es) from the NICE Classification (45 classes)
• Date of First Use: If the trademark has been in use, mention the date; otherwise, mark as "Proposed to be Used"
• Description of Goods/Services: Specific description of goods or services covered
• Priority Claim: If claiming priority from a foreign application (Paris Convention)

Trademark Logo Requirements

The trademark logo submitted must meet specific technical requirements:

• Format: JPG or JPEG
• Maximum Size: 8 cm × 8 cm (approximately 945 × 945 pixels at 300 DPI)
• File Size: Under 2 MB
• Background: White or transparent recommended
• Clarity: Must be clear and legible at the specified size
• Color vs B&W: If filed in color, protection is limited to that color combination. Filing in black and white gives broader protection across all colors.

Selecting the Right Trademark Class

Choosing the correct NICE Classification class is critical. Some commonly used classes include:

Filing in multiple classes is possible but each additional class incurs a separate government fee.

Government Fees for Trademark Registration

• For Individuals / Startups / MSMEs: ₹4,500 per class (e-filing)
• For Others (Companies, LLPs, etc.): ₹9,000 per class (e-filing)
• Physical Filing: Higher fees apply (₹5,000 and ₹10,000 respectively)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not conducting a trademark search: Always search the TM Registry database before filing to check for similar marks.
• Wrong class selection: Filing under the wrong class can render the trademark useless for your actual business.
• Low-quality logo: Blurry or low-resolution logos may be rejected.
• Generic or descriptive marks: Marks that are purely descriptive (e.g., "Best Quality Shoes") are likely to be refused.
• Incomplete Power of Attorney: Form TM-48 must be properly signed and notarized if filing through an agent.

How The Ledger Company Can Help

The Ledger Company provides end-to-end trademark registration services including trademark search, class identification, application drafting, filing, and follow-up with the Trademark Registry. Our team handles objections, opposition proceedings, and renewals, ensuring your brand is fully protected. With our online process, you can register your trademark from anywhere in India. Get started with a free trademark consultation today.