📘 Introduction:
Many business owners ask:
“How long does it take to register a trademark in India?”
This blog explains the complete process, including every stage and time estimate — written in simple, clear steps with practical tips.
🕒 Estimated Duration:
✅ Normal registration (no issues): Around 6 to 8 months
⚠️ With objections or opposition: May take 12 to 18+ months
🛑 In case of legal disputes or delays: Up to 24 months or more
📋 Trademark Registration Steps in India (With Duration)::
🔹 Step 1: Filing the Application (TM-A):
– Time: 1 to 2 working days
– Trademark application is submitted online, and an acknowledgment number is generated instantly.
🔹 Step 2: Vienna Codification (for logos):
– Time: 3 to 7 days
– Applicable only if your trademark includes a logo or artwork. Codification is done by the Registry for classification.
🔹 Step 3: Formalities Check by Registry:
– Time: 3 to 10 days
– Registry checks all forms and documents like TM-48, proof of usage, applicant details, etc.
🔹 Step 4: Examination by Trademark Officer:
– Time: 2 to 6 months
– Application is examined under Section 9 (descriptive) and Section 11 (conflict with existing marks).
– If there’s no objection, it directly proceeds to journal.
– If objected, you must reply within 30 days.
🔹 Step 5: Hearing (If Required):
– Time: Depends on Registry schedule
– If the examiner is not satisfied with your reply, they may schedule a physical or online hearing.
🔹 Step 6: Accepted & Advertised in Journal:
– Time: 1 to 3 months after acceptance
– The mark is published in the official Trademark Journal for a 4-month opposition period.
🔹 Step 7: Opposition Stage (If Any):
– Time: 4 to 6 months or more
– Any third party can oppose your mark during the journal period. This may delay registration.
🔹 Step 8: Registration Certificate Issued:
– Time: 1 to 2 months after journal
– If no opposition is filed (or resolved), your certificate is issued.
– You can now legally use the ® symbol.
✅ Tips to Speed Up Your Trademark Registration:
📝 File correctly with all mandatory documents
🔍 Do a pre-filing search to avoid similarity issues
🕐 Respond quickly to objections or exam reports
🧾 Keep proof of usage (invoices, social media, ads)
⚡ Apply for expedited processing using Form TM-M (optional in special cases)
