Trademark Renewal in India: A Complete Guide 2025

Trademark is an IP asset which helps to protect one's brand identity and reputation. Registration of a trademark is an important yet critical process as proper research should be done for checking the eligibility of registration of the mark. Even after research there are chances of rejection of mark if objection is raised by the official authority. After approval from the authority registration of the trademark is done. The trademark is valid for 10 years which can be renewed later on for next 10 years.

This comprehensive guide explains the concept of trademark renewal, how and when to renew a trademark in India, consequences of non-renewal and other required information.

📋 Table of Contents

• Trademark Renewal Overview
• Time for Renewal
• Procedure for Trademark Renewal
• Trademark Renewal Checklist
• Consequences of Non-Renewal
• Restoration after Expiry
• Benefits of Timely Renewal
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

🔄 Trademark Renewal Overview

To understand the concept of trademark renewal, let's split the words and determine their ordinary meaning. Trademark is a type of IPR which helps to protect individuals' or company's reputation or identity by protecting their unique words, marks, slogans, logos, shape of products and more. It helps one to access their exclusive use of the mark. Renewal means to renew something or an act of increasing time period when something is effective or valid.

Together, trademark renewal is a process of extending the validity of registration of trademark after the protection period expires. In India, a trademark is valid for 10 years from date of filing and it can be further renewed for the next 10 years.

⏰ Time for Renewal

In India, trademark can be renewed within 1 year before the expiry date, and within 6 months after expiry. This is governed under Section 25(3) of the Trademark Act, 1999 and Trademarks Rule, 2017. After expiry of this extended time, the trademark will be removed from the register.

The trademark can be renewed as it is or changes can be made. The application can be made in the form TM-R.

Renewal Fees:

• Physical filing: ₹10,000
• E-filing (online): ₹9,000

Required Documents:

• Copy of registration certificate
• Copy of TM-A form
• ID and address proof of the applicant
• Power of attorney (if using an authorized representative or agent)

📝 Procedure for Trademark Renewal

The process of renewal of trademark is simple in India. There are certain steps to be followed:

Step 1: Application Submission

The applicant or appointed owner shall file application form TM-R along with relevant documents prescribed. The application must contain reasons for failure of renewal of the expired or expiring trademark. The restoration filing should take place after 6 months from the expiration date but within 1 year from the said date.

Step 2: Review

The applicant must check and review the status of the application. The continuous process of status check has to be observed for proceeding with the process of application.

Step 3: Publication in Trademark Journal

After the registrar has completed examination of application and has accepted the same, the trademark will be then advertised in the journal. A fair opportunity is given to the public. After all the formalities, if no objections are raised, the trademark shall be registered in the official journal of trademark.

Step 4: Grant of Renewal Certificate

Once approved, the trademark is renewed for the next 10 years, and a renewal certificate is issued.

✅ Trademark Renewal Checklist

• Timely application: File within the prescribed timeline to avoid complications
• Complete documentation: Submit all requisite documents and supporting evidence. Fill required forms correctly. If needed, seek professional help
• Fee payment: Ensure requisite fees are paid by the applicant
• Journal monitoring: Track publication of journal regarding the trademark and handle objections with care and caution
• Record maintenance: Keep certificate of renewal, receipts and other records properly

⚠️ Consequences of Non-Renewal

The following consequences may occur if there is non-renewal of trademark:

• Removal from register: The trademark can be removed from the register of trademark
• Loss of exclusive rights: Exclusive rights given to the applicant lose their validity
• Third-party registration: Third party or opposition can apply for similar or identical marks
• Compromised protection: Legal protection and brand reputation are compromised

🔧 Restoration after Expiry

If trademark is removed due to non-renewal, restoration is possible. For the said circumstance, application shall be made within 1 year from the date of removal. Approval is subject to the Registrar's discretion.

Important Note: Restoration is more expensive and uncertain than timely renewal. It is always better to renew on time to avoid complications.

💡 Benefits of Timely Renewal

• Continuous exclusive access: Maintain uninterrupted exclusive rights over your trademark
• Continuous legal protection: Ensure ongoing legal safeguards for your brand
• Brand value protection: Preserve your brand reputation and goodwill
• Cost-effective: Avoid additional costs and complications of late renewal or restoration
• Hassle-free process: Simple renewal process compared to restoration
• No risk: Eliminate risk of cancellation or opposition from third parties

✨ Conclusion

Trademark renewal is essential for maintaining brand protection and reputation. Since trademarks can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years, they can remain a lifelong asset—but only if renewed on time.

Trademark owners should track renewal deadlines carefully or seek professional help to avoid missing important dates. Timely renewal ensures continuous legal protection, exclusive rights, and preservation of brand value in the competitive marketplace.

By following the proper renewal procedure and maintaining necessary documentation, businesses and individuals can safeguard their intellectual property and maintain their competitive advantage for decades to come.