Understanding the Cost of Protecting Your Brand: A Complete Guide to Trademark Registration Fees in India

When you start a new business setup in India, building a strong brand identity is as important as setting up your operations. Whether you are focusing on company formation, startup registration, or company registration in India, one essential step you should never overlook is trademark registration.

A trademark not only protects your brand name, logo, or slogan but also establishes your exclusive right to use them in your line of business. However, many entrepreneurs often have questions regarding the trademark registration fees in India and the process involved.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand the complete fee structure, government charges, and professional costs related to trademark registration, along with insights into why it’s a crucial investment for every business.

Why Trademark Registration Matters for Businesses

In a competitive market, where new startups emerge every day, your brand identity is your biggest asset. A registered trademark acts as a legal safeguard that prevents others from copying or misusing your brand.

Here’s why trademark registration is essential:

• Brand Protection: It provides exclusive ownership of your brand name or logo.
• Legal Rights: You gain the right to take legal action against anyone using your mark without permission.
• Business Credibility: A registered trademark adds credibility and trust among consumers.
• Asset Value: Trademarks can be sold, licensed, or franchised, increasing your business valuation.
• Global Reach: A registered Indian trademark can help you register internationally under the Madrid Protocol.

Whether you’re focusing on business setup or company formation in India, trademark registration is a key step toward establishing a long-term brand presence.

Trademark Registration Fees in India: Government Fee Structure (2025)

The Government of India has prescribed specific fees for trademark registration, depending on the applicant type—individual, startup, MSME, or company.

Here’s the detailed breakdown:

1. For Individuals, Startups, and MSMEs

• Application Fee (per class): ₹4,500 (if filed online)
• Physical Application: ₹5,000

2. For Companies and LLPs (Non-MSME Entities)

• Application Fee (per class): ₹9,000 (if filed online)
• Physical Application: ₹10,000

The fee applies per class, meaning if your brand operates under multiple classes (for example, clothing and food products), you’ll need to file separate applications for each.

Additional Costs to Consider

Apart from the government fee, there may be professional or attorney fees if you hire a trademark expert or business registration consultant to handle your filing.

Here’s an approximate breakdown:

Tip: Registering under MSME or Startup India schemes can significantly reduce your registration fees, so make sure your business is registered under MSME registration or Startup India before applying for a trademark.

Step-by-Step Process of Trademark Registration in India

1. Trademark Search:
   Before applying, conduct a trademark search on the IP India website to ensure your desired name or logo is unique.

2. Filing the Application:
   File your application online using Form TM-A through the Trademark Registry portal.

3. Examination:
   The application is reviewed by an examiner. If there are no objections, it proceeds to publication.

4. Publication in Trademark Journal:
   Your trademark is published for public review. If no opposition arises within 4 months, it moves toward approval.

5. Trademark Registration Certificate:
   Once approved, you receive a Trademark Registration Certificate, valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely.

Cost of Trademark Renewal

A trademark remains valid for 10 years. To maintain protection, you must renew it before expiration.

• Online Renewal Fee: ₹9,000
• Physical Application: ₹10,000
• Professional Assistance (Optional): ₹2,000–₹5,000

Renewing your trademark on time ensures continued brand protection without interruption.

Trademark Registration for Startups and Small Businesses

For new entrepreneurs focusing on business setup and company registration in India, trademark protection is crucial from day one. The Startup India and MSME programs offer discounted registration fees to encourage small businesses to secure their intellectual property early.

This step is especially vital for digital businesses, ecommerce brands, marketing agencies, and tech startups—where brand identity is everything.

By registering your trademark early, you can:

• Avoid brand name conflicts during expansion.
• Build a strong reputation among customers.
• Enhance investor confidence and business valuation.

Government Incentives for MSMEs and Startups

India’s Startup India initiative and MSME registration program offer reduced government fees to support entrepreneurs. Eligible entities get:

• 50% reduction in government fees.
• Faster application processing.
• Legal support and IP awareness programs.

Hence, if you are planning company formation or business setup in India, it’s advisable to register under these programs before applying for your trademark.

Importance of Trademark in Company Formation and Business Growth

Trademark registration goes hand-in-hand with other essential business steps like company registration, GST registration, and business license acquisition.

When establishing your brand, consider these key stages together:

1. Company Registration in India – Legal foundation for your business.

2. Trademark Registration – Legal protection for your brand identity.

3. GST & Compliance Registration – Ensures financial and tax compliance.

4. Digital Branding & Marketing – Builds visibility and customer trust.

By integrating these processes, you create a strong, compliant, and recognizable brand.

Tips to Save Money on Trademark Registration

• Register under MSME or Startup India to get reduced fees.
• File your application online instead of offline for a lower government charge.
• Hire a professional consultant to avoid costly rejections or objections.
• Apply for multiple classes together if you plan to expand your product range.
• Renew your trademark on time to avoid additional penalty fees.

Conclusion

Trademark registration is not just a legal formality—it’s a strategic investment for long-term success. Whether you are focusing on business setup, company formation, or company registration in India, securing your brand identity should be a top priority.

With affordable trademark registration fees and simplified government procedures, every entrepreneur—big or small—can now protect their brand with ease.

By safeguarding your intellectual property early, you lay the foundation for sustainable business growth, market credibility, and brand legacy.