What is Trademark Renewal?
Trademark Renewal is the legal process of extending the validity of your registered trademark after its initial protection period ends. In India, a trademark registration is valid for 10 years, after which it must be renewed to continue enjoying exclusive rights over your brand name, logo, or slogan.
Think of it like renewing your car insurance — you need to keep it active to stay protected. Without renewal, your brand becomes vulnerable to misuse or imitation.
Why is Trademark Renewal Important?
Your trademark isn’t just a symbol; it’s your business identity. Renewing it ensures:
- Continuous legal protection against infringement.
- Uninterrupted brand ownership, avoiding any lapse.
- Preservation of goodwill and customer trust built over the years.
Failure to renew could result in your trademark being struck from the register, allowing others to register similar marks.
Duration and Validity of a Trademark
A registered trademark in India is valid for 10 years from the date of filing. You can renew it every 10 years indefinitely, so your brand can stay legally protected forever — as long as you renew on time.
When Should You Renew a Trademark?
A trademark renewal should be filed within 6 months before the expiry date. The Indian Trademarks Act also provides a 6-month grace period after expiry, but late renewals incur additional fees.
Example:
If your trademark expires on December 31, 2025, you can renew it between July 2025 and June 2026 (with a late fee).
Documents Required for Trademark Renewal
Before filing for renewal, keep these documents ready:
- Duly filled Form TM-R
- Proof of trademark registration (certificate)
- ID and address proof of the trademark owner
- Power of attorney (if filed through an agent or lawyer)
Step-by-Step Process of Trademark Renewal in India
Step 1: Visit the official IP India website – https://ipindia.gov.in
Step 2: Log in using your credentials.
Step 3: Complete Form TM-R and attach the required documents.
Step 4: Pay the renewal fee (₹9,000 for e-filing, ₹10,000 for physical filing).
Step 5: Submit and download the acknowledgement slip.
Step 6: Once approved, you’ll receive a Trademark Renewal Certificate confirming your extended validity.
Consequences of Not Renewing a Trademark
If you miss your renewal deadline:
- Your trademark can be removed from the Register of Trademarks.
- You lose your exclusive legal rights.
- Competitors may register a similar trademark, which can confuse your customers.
In short, you risk losing your brand identity and reputation.
Restoring an Expired Trademark
If your trademark has already expired, don’t panic — you can restore it within one year from the date of expiry by filing Form TM-R with a restoration fee.
However, restoration is costlier and may involve legal scrutiny, so it’s best not to let your registration lapse in the first place.
Tips to Avoid Missing Renewal Deadlines
- Set digital calendar reminders well before expiry.
- Hire a professional firm to monitor renewal dates.
- Keep your contact details updated in the Trademark Registry.
Can You Update Trademark Details During Renewal?
Yes. During renewal, you can update:
- Owner’s address or contact details
- Description of goods/services
- Minor logo changes
However, significant modifications require a separate application under the amendment process.
Professional Help for Trademark Renewal
If you’re unsure about the process, professional platforms like Kanakkupillai.com can handle the entire renewal process for you. They assist with:
- Preparing and filing renewal forms
- Tracking trademark status
- Managing multiple trademarks for large businesses
Conclusion
Trademark Renewal is more than a legal formality — it’s a commitment to protecting your brand identity and business legacy. Timely renewal keeps your intellectual property safe, prevents misuse, and strengthens your market credibility.
Remember, your brand is your biggest asset — renew it, protect it, and own it forever.