FinTax24

GST & Business

Trademark Registration Eligibility

Decision aid

Quick answer: The FinTax24 Trademark Registration Eligibility Checker maps your mark type, Nice class selection, prior-use claim, descriptiveness risk and prior-search status to a registrability verdict — citing the Trade Marks Act 1999 + Trade Marks Rules 2017 (Nice Classification, 45 classes).

Trademark Registration Eligibility

Determine if your mark is registrable as a trademark — checks distinctiveness, Nice class selection, prior-use risk and filing strategy.

1 Enter Details

12+ months of continuous prior use is the threshold for "well-known mark" recognition (Section 11).

Nice classes 1-34 = goods; 35-45 = services. Class 25 = clothing; 9 = software; 35 = advertising; 43 = restaurant.

2 Results

Results are ready but hidden

Click Calculate on the left to reveal the breakdown.

Disclaimer: Results are for indicative purposes only and may vary based on actual rates, rules, and policies. Please consult a FinTax24 expert for binding advice.

How to use this calculator

Follow these 5 steps for an accurate result.

  1. 1

    Pick mark type

    Wordmark / logo / slogan / combined — drives the filing form and government fee.

  2. 2

    Pick Nice class

    Match your primary goods or services to a class 1-45. Class 25 = clothing, 9 = software, 43 = restaurant.

  3. 3

    Flag prior use

    12+ months of continuous use gives Section 34 advantage against later conflicting applications.

  4. 4

    Confirm prior search

    A trademark search (₹1,500-3,000) on ipindia.gov.in reduces Section 11 objection risk.

  5. 5

    Read verdict + recommended action

    See "Eligible / Wrong Nice class / Likely refused (descriptive) / Eligible but file a prior search first" + recommended action.

Key takeaways

  • Purely descriptive marks are barred under Section 9(1)(b) — only 5+ years of acquired distinctiveness can save them.
  • Nice classes 1-34 = goods; 35-45 = services. Wrong class triggers examiner objection.
  • Prior use of 12+ months may qualify for "well-known mark" recognition (Section 11).
  • Filing without a prior search risks examiner objection + opposition hearing under Section 11.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common questions about trademark registration eligibility.

What is the cost of filing a trademark in India?

Government fee: ₹4,500 for individuals / startups / small entities (Form TM-A online), ₹9,500 for others. Professional fee: ₹1,500-5,000 for filing + ₹2,500-5,000 for response to examination report.

How long does trademark registration take?

Typically 8-18 months from filing to registration. The first 3-4 months see examination + examination report; the next 4-12 months are the opposition window. Registration certificate is issued if no opposition succeeds.

Can I file for multiple Nice classes in one application?

Yes — multi-class filing is allowed but the government fee is multiplied per class. Most startups file 1-2 classes initially and add classes via subsequent applications.

What is the validity of a registered trademark?

10 years from the registration date. Renewable indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Non-use for 5+ years can trigger a Section 47 removal application by any third party.

Sources & authority: For regulations on trademark registration eligibility, refer to gst.gov.in, mca.gov.in, incometax.gov.in, rbi.org.in, Trade Marks Act 1999, Trade Marks Rules 2017, IPIndia trademark search.

Last reviewed by: FinTax24 Compliance Desk · Reviewed on:

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