A trademark protects your brand name, logo, or slogan from being copied. In Pakistan, registering a trademark gives you legal ownership of your brand. It helps stop others from using your name or logo without permission. Whether you run a small business or work as a professional, knowing how to register a trademark in Pakistan in 2026 is very important. This guide explains the process in simple words, with updated fees, timelines, and step-by-step instructions, so anyone can understand and apply easily.
What Is a Trademark?
A trademark is a unique sign, like a name, logo, slogan, or symbol, that distinguishes your goods or services from others in the market. Registering a trademark gives you exclusive rights to use it and legal protection against misuse or infringement.
Tip: You can use ™ once you apply, but only use ® after you receive registration.
Trademark Registration Process in Pakistan (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a clear roadmap of what happens from start to finish:
1. Trademark Search (Optional but Recommended)
Conduct a preliminary search to check if your mark already exists in the registry.
- Helps avoid rejection due to similarities with existing trademarks.
- Requires Form TM-55 and a small fee.
2. Filing the Application (Form TM-1)
Prepare and submit Form TM-1 with:
- Applicant’s details (CNIC, address)
- Trademark image/name
- List of goods/services (with classification)
- Copy of CNIC / company incorporation documents
- Power of Attorney (if using an agent)
You can file:
- Online via the IPO Pakistan e-filing portal
- Offline at IPO offices (Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad)
- Ensure the trademark is distinctive (not generic or descriptive) to avoid objections.
3. Examination
The IPO examines your application for conflicts or legal issues.
- If no objections are raised, the application proceeds.
- If there is an objection, you’ll receive a report with a deadline to respond.
4. Publication
If accepted, your trademark is published in the IPO Trademarks Journal. This allows others to oppose within 2 months if they believe it infringes their rights.
5. Opposition Period
Any third party can file a Form TM-5 to oppose. You must reply, or it may affect your application.
6. Certificate Issuance
If there is no opposition, or opposition is resolved in your favor, you receive your Trademark Registration Certificate (Form TM-11). Registration is valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely.
Timeline: How Long It Takes
The trademark process may vary in duration depending on workload, objections, and the completeness of the application.
| Stage | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Preliminary Search | 2–3 days |
| Filing & Acknowledgment | 1–2 weeks |
| Examination | 3–6 months |
| Journal Publication & Opposition | 2 months |
| Certificate Issuance | 1–2 months |
| Total | 8–18 months (average) |
This timeline reflects typical practice as seen across multiple legal sources.
Pro tip: Online filing speeds up notification and tracking.
Official Fees for Trademark Registration (2026)
Below is a clear table of the official trademark fees in Pakistan. Exact costs may change periodically, so always check the latest IPO Pakistan schedule before payment.
| Step / Form | Purpose | Approx. Fee (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| TM-55 | Trademark availability search | 1,000 |
| TM-1 | Application filing per class | 3,000 |
| TM-11 | Registration certificate issuance | 9,000 |
| TM-12 | Renewal (every 10 years) | 15,000 (est.) |
| TM-13 | Restoration after removal | 3,000 |
| Opposition Notices (TM-05/TM-06) | Opposition / reply | 9,000 / 1,500 |
Note: Fees may differ slightly between sources and portals.
Hiring legal professionals is optional but often helpful; their fees vary widely. Contact us if you want to register your trademark.
Why Register Your Trademark?
There are multiple benefits of registering your trademark:
It provides you with legal protection & exclusive rights. It prevents others from copying your brand. You can boost customer trust and market credibility. Your trademark becomes a business asset, and with it, you have the opportunity to license or franchise.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply
- Decide whether to file online or offline
- Finalize trademark design/name
- Determine the correct Nice Class
- Prepare all required documents
- Pay government fees through a bank challan or the online portal
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them
| Challenge | How to Handle |
|---|---|
| Objections during examination | Provide clear evidence of use/intent |
| Opposition by others | Respond promptly; get legal help |
| Incorrect classification | Verify goods/services category carefully |
| Missing deadlines | Use IPO tracking & email alerts |
What Happens After Registration?
- Valid for 10 years from the application date.
- You can renew every 10 years indefinitely.
- Use the ® symbol to show legal protection.
- Maintain records and watch for infringement.
Conclusion
To protect your brand effectively, it is always wise to start the trademark registration process early. In Pakistan, trademark rights are granted on a first-to-file basis, meaning the person who files first obtains legal ownership. Delaying your application can increase the risk that someone else registers a similar name or logo before you, leading to legal complications and loss of brand identity.
Using the online trademark registration system in Pakistan is highly recommended. Online filing allows you to submit your application easily, track its status in real time, and receive updates without visiting IPO offices. This method saves time, reduces paperwork, and gives better control over the entire trademark registration process in Pakistan.
If your trademark is unique, highly creative, or if you receive objections or opposition, seeking professional legal assistance can be a smart decision. Trademark lawyers and consultants understand the technical requirements and legal procedures, helping you respond correctly and avoid rejection. Proper guidance ensures a smoother registration process and stronger legal protection for your trademark in Pakistan.
