Learn about Trademark Registration and renewal in India, the latest 2026 IP India updates, application steps, government fees, documents and deadlines to protect your brand.

Trademark Registration & Renewal in India: 2026 Guide

Introduction

Trademark Registration is an important step for businesses that want to protect their brand name, logo, slogan or product identity in India. Whether you run a startup, an online store, a manufacturing company or a service business, a trademark helps customers identify your brand and distinguish it from competitors. However, registration alone is not enough. Businesses must also monitor their trademark status, respond to official notices and renew their registration on time.

In October 2026, the Indian Trade Marks Registry published draft guidelines addressing the use or misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) and trademark squatting. This development highlights the importance of protecting brand identity in a changing digital environment. The draft should not be confused with a final change to trademark law or renewal deadlines. This guide explains the latest relevant update, the trademark registration process, government fees, required documents and renewal rules so that businesses can take informed steps to protect their intellectual property.

Latest Trademark Registration Updates in India 2026

On 17 October 2026, the official IP India website published draft guidelines on the use or misuse of artificial intelligence and the problem of trademark squatting. The publication followed an order dated 13 October 2026 by the Delhi High Court in W.P.(C)-IPD 16/2026.

Trademark squatting generally involves attempting to register a mark in bad faith, potentially to benefit from another business's reputation or prevent the rightful business from using its identity. AI-related concerns can create additional challenges when brand names, logos or other identity elements are used or represented without authorisation.

What does this mean for businesses?

  • Check whether your proposed brand name is identical or confusingly similar to an existing mark.

  • Keep records showing your brand's use, ownership and development.

  • Monitor your trademark application and any official communications.

  • Follow official notices to understand whether draft guidelines have been finalised or changed.

These guidelines were published as a draft. Businesses should not assume that they are already binding final rules. Check the official IP India News and Updates page for the latest position.

Another relevant development is IP India's 31 August 2026 announcement of a special disposal drive for pending trademark opposition matters involving settlement or withdrawal. This is relevant to businesses dealing with opposition proceedings, but it does not mean every disputed application will automatically be resolved.

What Is Trademark Registration and Why Is It Important?

Trademark Registration is the process of applying to the Indian Trade Marks Registry to protect a distinctive mark for specified goods or services. Depending on the circumstances, a trademark may consist of a brand name, logo, word, label, slogan or another registrable sign.

A registered trademark provides statutory rights for the mark and the goods or services covered by the registration, subject to applicable law. It can also help the owner take action against unauthorised use.

Key benefits include:

  • Brand protection: Helps protect your brand identity against confusingly similar marks.

  • Customer recognition: Makes it easier for customers to identify your products or services.

  • Business value: A trademark may be licensed, assigned or used as a commercial asset.

  • Legal remedies: Registration can support enforcement of trademark rights where infringement occurs.

  • Business expansion: A protected brand can provide a stronger foundation for entering new markets.

Trademark registration is different from company registration, GST registration and domain-name ownership. Registering a company name does not automatically mean that the same name is available for trademark registration.

Before filing an application, search the official trademark database and select the appropriate class for your goods or services. You can explore CertifyKaro's Trademark Registration & Renewal service for assistance with the process.

How Long Is a Trademark Valid in India?

Under Section 25 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, a registered trademark is valid for ten years and can be renewed for further ten-year periods by following the prescribed procedure.

Trademark renewal is important because missing the deadline can put the registration at risk. Businesses should record the expiry date, maintain correct ownership details and start preparing for renewal well in advance.

Under Rule 57 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2017, an application for renewal is made using Form TM-R and may be filed up to one year before the expiry of the last registration period.

If a trademark has expired, the available options depend on the applicable rules, time limits and status of the registration. Do not assume that an expired registration can always be restored or that a reminder will automatically arrive.

Read the Trade Marks Rules, 2017 and check the official register to confirm your trademark's status.

What Are the Trademark Registration and Renewal Fees in India?

The government fee depends on the type of application, applicant category and number of classes. Professional service charges, if any, are separate.

According to the official IP India fee schedule, the standard e-filing fees include:

  • New trademark application: ₹4,500 per mark per class for an individual, startup or small enterprise.

  • New trademark application for other applicants: ₹9,000 per mark per class.

  • Trademark renewal: ₹9,000 per class for e-filing.

  • Late renewal or restoration: Additional charges may apply, depending on the procedure and circumstances.

Eligibility for reduced fees depends on the applicable category and requirements. Always verify the latest fee schedule before payment.

For the official forms, renewal application and current charges, visit the IP India Forms & Official Fees page.

How to Apply for Trademark Registration Online in India

Follow these steps before submitting a trademark application.

Step 1: Select your brand name or logo

Choose the mark you want to protect. A distinctive mark is generally more suitable than a generic term or a word that simply describes the product.

Step 2: Conduct a trademark search

Search the official Trade Marks Registry database for identical or similar marks. Consider spelling differences, phonetic similarities and related goods or services. A search reduces risk but does not guarantee acceptance.

Step 3: Choose the correct trademark class

Goods are generally covered by Classes 1–34, while services fall under Classes 35–45. Your class selection should match the goods or services for which you need protection.

Step 4: Prepare the required information

Depending on the applicant and application, prepare the applicant's details, address, representation of the mark, goods or services description and supporting documents. If claiming prior use, relevant evidence may be required.

Step 5: File the application

Submit Form TM-A through the official IP India e-filing system and pay the applicable fee. Check all information before submission because mistakes may lead to delays or additional work.

Step 6: Monitor the application

Track the application status and respond to examination objections or other official communications within the applicable deadlines. A third party may also oppose the application after it is advertised in the Trade Marks Journal.

Step 7: Keep your records safe

Save the application number, acknowledgement, registration certificate and ownership information. Set reminders for future status checks and renewal.

Official applications and status information are available through IP India.

Trademark Renewal Checklist: Avoid Missing the Deadline

Use this checklist if your business already has a registered trademark.

  • Confirm the trademark registration number and expiry date.

  • Verify the registered proprietor's name and contact details.

  • Review whether the mark and registered goods or services still match your business requirements.

  • Set reminders well before expiry.

  • Prepare the information required for Form TM-R.

  • Check the current government fee and any additional charges.

  • File the renewal application and save the acknowledgement.

  • Track the application and confirm the status in the official register.

If the registration has already expired, check the applicable restoration and renewal provisions promptly. The Trade Marks Rules contain specific procedures and time limits, so the correct next step depends on the case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trademark Registration and Renewal

1. How much does trademark registration cost in India in 2026?

The standard e-filing government fee is ₹4,500 per mark per class for eligible individuals, startups and small enterprises, and ₹9,000 per mark per class for other applicants. Check the official fee schedule to confirm eligibility and current charges.

2. How often should a trademark be renewed in India?

A registered trademark is valid for ten years and can be renewed for successive ten-year periods. The owner should check the expiry date and file the renewal application with the prescribed fee.

3. Which form is used for trademark renewal in India?

Form TM-R is used to apply for trademark renewal. Additional charges or procedures may apply if the registration has expired or restoration is required.

4. Can I register a trademark if a similar brand already exists?

It depends on the similarity of the marks, the goods or services involved, earlier rights and other legal factors. Conduct a proper search before filing and seek professional guidance if a potentially conflicting mark exists.

5. What are the latest trademark updates in India in 2026?

IP India published draft guidelines on AI misuse and trademark squatting on 17 October 2026. The Registry also announced a special disposal drive for pending trademark opposition matters on 31 August 2026. Check the official notices to confirm later developments.

Conclusion

Trademark Registration and Renewal are important for protecting a brand's identity in India. The latest IP India developments concerning AI misuse and trademark squatting highlight why businesses should monitor official updates and maintain reliable records of their intellectual property.

Search your proposed mark before filing, select the correct class, respond to official communications on time and plan renewal well before expiry. Do not wait until the last moment to review your trademark status.

Need help with Trademark Registration or Renewal?

CertifyKaro can help you understand the filing process, required information and renewal steps for your business.

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Call: +91 70422 52542

Service page: /services/trademark-registration-renewal

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current fees, notices and legal requirements through official IP India sources or consult a qualified professional.