To register a trademark in India, you need Form TM-A, proof of identity and address for the applicant, a logo copy (if applicable), incorporation or partnership deeds, and, in some cases, a Udyog Aadhar Registration Certificate. Below is a detailed breakdown:
| Applicant Type | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Individuals & Sole Proprietorship |
1. Form TM-A 2. Logo (if applicable) 3. Power of Attorney (Form-48) 4. Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport, Driving License) 5. Address Proof (Utility Bill, Bank Statement, Voter ID) 6. User Affidavit |
| Partnership Firms |
1. Form TM-A 2. Logo (if applicable) 3. Power of Attorney (Form-48) 4. Partnership Deed / Firm Registration Certificate 5. Identity & Address Proof of Signatory 6. User Affidavit 7. MSME Certificate 8. Startup Recognition Certificate (DPIIT) 9. Partnership PAN Card |
| Companies (Private Ltd., Public Ltd., LLPs) |
1. Form TM-A 2. Incorporation Certificate / LLP deed 3. Power of Attorney (Form-48) 4. Logo (if applicable) 5. Identity & Address Proof of Authorized Signatory 6. User Affidavit 7. MSME Certificate (if applicable) 8. Startup Recognition Certificate (DPIIT) 9. Company PAN Card or LLP PAN Card |
| Other Applicants (Trusts, NGOs, etc.) |
1. Form TM-A 2. Logo (if applicable) 3. Incorporation Certificate 4. Power of Attorney (Form-48) 5. Identity & Address Proof of Authorized Signatory 6. User Affidavit 7. Trust PAN Card 8. Trust Deed 9. GST Certificate |
| Category | Trademark | Copyright | Patent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection | Brand names, logos, slogans | Creative works of authorship | New inventions or discoveries |
| Duration | Renewable indefinitely | Life of author + fixed period | 20 years from filing |
| Application | Approved by Trademark Registry | Approved by Copyright Office | Approved by Patent Office |
| Requirements | Unique & distinctive | Original & fixed in a medium | Novel & non-obvious |
| Enforcement | Legal action | Legal action | Legal action |
| Example | Nike’s Swoosh logo | To Kill a Mockingbird | Bell’s telephone patent |
Trademark registration provides legal protection, grants exclusive rights, and differentiates products and services from competitors. It builds goodwill, establishes a valuable business asset, and facilitates global expansion, enhancing brand strength.
Trademark registration grants you exclusive rights to use the mark for your specific products and services, preventing unauthorized trademark use.
A trademark helps differentiate products and services, creating a unique brand identity. It improves consumer trust, loyalty, and recognition.
A registered trademark is a valuable asset that can be licensed, sold, or used for financing. It increases brand value and attracts investors.
Once registered, you can use the ® symbol, signaling credibility and legal protection.
A registered trademark helps prevent infringement and provides legal grounds in disputes.
Trademark registration is valid for ten years, ensuring long-term brand protection.
International protection is possible through treaties like the Madrid Protocol, supporting global expansion.
Brand registration makes your business stand out, attracting more customers by providing authenticity and trust.
India’s trademark system categorizes marks into Classes 1-34 for goods and Classes 35-45 for services. Choosing the correct class ensures your trademark covers the appropriate products and services. Common examples: