Trademark Registration & Trademark Search Online

The Trade Marks Act, 1999 protects registered marks for specified goods and services. Applications use Form TM-A and the Nice Classification, which contains 45 classes: 34 for goods and 11 for services.

A search helps identify conflicts but cannot guarantee acceptance. The Registry examines the application; objections may require a written reply and hearing before acceptance and publication.

An examination report ordinarily requires a reply within 30 days, or one month from receipt as specified in the notice. Accepted applications face a four-month opposition window after advertisement, and registration is renewable in ten-year periods.

Businesses building a recognisable brand should consider trademark protection before spending heavily on packaging, signage, websites or distribution. A company name, domain registration or social media handle does not by itself establish trademark clearance. Search for similar-looking and similar-sounding marks in the relevant commercial field, not just exact matches. The applicant should be the person or entity that genuinely owns the mark, with any founder-to-company transfers documented properly before a funding round, licence arrangement or proposed business sale.

Manufacturers, service providers, retailers and online sellers may need protection in different classes depending on their actual goods and services. One class does not automatically cover every future activity, and a logo application may not provide the same practical coverage as a word mark. Descriptive, generic or misleading expressions can face objections. If you claim use before filing, gather dated evidence and prepare the required user affidavit carefully; if use has not begun, the application can reflect a proposed-to-be-used basis.

Track the application through the official status system and preserve filing receipts, examination reports and deadline notices. You may use TM to indicate a trademark claim, but reserve ® for a registered mark in the relevant context. Maintain evidence of genuine commercial use, including dated invoices, advertising and packaging. If the business changes its legal name, address or ownership, review whether Registry records or assignments need updating rather than assuming corporate changes automatically update the trademark register.

Registration is generally valid for ten years and can be renewed for further ten-year periods. Diary renewal well before expiry and monitor relevant new applications or confusing marketplace use. Registration is not a promise that every use by another business is unlawful; enforcement depends on the mark, goods or services, facts and available defences. Seek advice before sending allegations, and review coverage when expanding into new products, service categories or overseas markets.