International Trademark Registration
Expand Your Brand Globally with Tax Pal Solutions
Protect your trademark beyond India with ease. Tax Pal Solutions offers seamless international trademark registration, guiding you through the legal process and helping you secure your brand in multiple countries efficiently.
Why International Trademark Registration Matters
Your brand is the core of your business identity. While registering a trademark in India protects your brand domestically, international registration ensures your rights extend to global markets. This protects your business from imitation, online misuse, and potential legal conflicts abroad.
Key Advantages:
- Safeguard your brand when selling internationally
- Prevent “trademark squatting”
- Build a globally recognized brand
- Protect your online presence and e-commerce expansion
Who Can Apply
You can apply for international trademark registration if you meet at least one of these conditions:
- Indian citizen
- Business operating in India (industrial or commercial establishment)
- Domiciled in India
The Madrid Protocol System
The Madrid Protocol allows a single application to cover multiple countries. India joined this system in 2013, enabling businesses to file an international trademark from India for 120+ member countries.
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective: Saves up to 60–70% compared to separate filings
- Time-Saving: One application, one fee, one renewal process
- Centralized Management: Manage your portfolio online, track applications, and renew centrally
Prerequisites for Filing
Before filing internationally, you need:
- A Basic Indian Trademark – either registered or applied
- Connection to India – citizen, business, or domicile
- Digital trademark/logo image and identity documents
- Power of Attorney if an attorney files on your behalf
Step-by-Step Process
| Step | Description | Who Handles |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trademark Search – Check WIPO Global Brand Database for similar marks | Applicant / Attorney |
| 2 | File MM2(E) Application – List designated countries & goods/services | Indian Trademark Office |
| 3 | Verification by Indian Office – Confirm details match basic Indian trademark | Indian Trademark Office |
| 4 | Examination by WIPO – Check form, classification, and fees | WIPO |
| 5 | Publication & Notification – WIPO publishes in Gazette & notifies countries | WIPO |
| 6 | Country-Specific Examination – Each country may accept or issue provisional refusal | National Trademark Offices |
| 7 | Grant of International Registration – Trademark protected in approved countries | WIPO |
Fees Overview
| Fee Component | Payable To | Approx. Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handling Fee | Indian Trademark Office | ₹5,000 | Processing & forwarding fee |
| Basic Fee (B&W) | WIPO | 653 CHF | For first three classes |
| Basic Fee (Color) | WIPO | 903 CHF | If trademark has colors |
| Country Designation Fee | WIPO | 100 CHF per country | Standard for most member countries |
| Individual Country Fee | WIPO | Varies | Country-specific charges |
| Supplementary Fee | WIPO | 100 CHF per extra class | Beyond first three classes |
| Professional Fee | Attorney / Firm | Varies | For filing, legal support, and classification |
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Number of countries
- Number of classes
- Use of color in the trademark
Validity & Renewal
- Valid for 10 years from registration
- Can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years
- Centralized renewal with WIPO for all designated countries
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a weak or generic mark
- Skipping trademark search
- Incorrect classification of goods/services
- Errors in application forms (spelling, address, or documents)
Benefits of International Registration
Legal Protection:
- Exclusive rights in designated countries
- Prevents unauthorized use
- Confidence to expand globally
Business Growth:
- Licensing and franchising opportunities
- Attracts investors
- Builds international brand reputation
Customs & Trade:
- Easier customs clearance
- Stop counterfeit imports
Certification
