A trademark is one of the most valuable assets for any business. It protects your brand’s identity and helps you stand out from competitors. However, many business owners often forget that registering a trademark is not a one-time process — it requires renewal at regular intervals to maintain legal protection.
In this detailed article, Corpmate, your trusted trademark consultant in Ludhiana, explains everything you need to know about the trademark renewal period, its process, importance, and consequences of missing renewal deadlines.
What is a Trademark Renewal Period?
The trademark renewal period refers to the specific time frame within which the owner of a registered trademark must renew it to continue enjoying exclusive rights over the mark.
According to the Indian Trademark Act, 1999, a registered trademark remains valid for 10 years from the date of application. After this 10-year period, the owner must renew the trademark to keep it active and legally protected.
In short:
- Validity of a Trademark: 10 years
- Trademark Renewal Period: Every 10 years
- When to Apply for Renewal: Within 6 months before expiry
If you fail to renew within the given period, your trademark may be removed from the register, leading to loss of ownership rights.
Why Trademark Renewal is Important?
Renewing your trademark on time is crucial for maintaining your brand’s legal and commercial protection. Here’s why it matters:
- Continued Legal Protection:
Renewal ensures your brand remains legally safeguarded against misuse or infringement. - Retained Ownership Rights:
By renewing within the official trademark renewal period, you continue to hold exclusive ownership of your brand name, logo, or slogan. - Avoids Legal Disputes:
If your trademark expires, competitors can apply for similar marks, which can lead to objections and lengthy disputes. - Maintains Business Reputation:
Losing trademark protection can harm your brand reputation and cause customers to lose trust in your products or services. - Ensures Business Continuity:
A renewed trademark signifies that your brand is active, genuine, and legally recognized — boosting your credibility in the market.
When Can You Renew a Trademark?
You can renew your trademark anytime within six months before its expiry.
For example:
If your trademark was registered on 1 January 2015, it will expire on 1 January 2025. You can apply for renewal anytime after 1 July 2024.
If you miss this period, the Trademark Registry allows a grace period of 6 months after expiry, but with an additional late renewal fee.
However, if you fail to renew even after the grace period, your trademark will be removed from the official register — and reinstating it later becomes a complicated and costly process.
Documents Required for Trademark Renewal
To complete the renewal process, you’ll need the following documents:
- A copy of the Trademark Registration Certificate
- The Application Number of your trademark
- Power of Attorney (POA) if filed through an agent or consultant
- Identity proof and address proof of the trademark owner
Corpmate’s Trademark Experts in Ludhiana help you prepare and submit all these documents accurately to avoid any delay or rejection during renewal.
How to Renew a Trademark in India – Step-by-Step Process?
The renewal process is simple when handled correctly. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Check Renewal Due Date
Visit the IP India Trademark Search Portal and enter your trademark application number. You’ll see the current status and expiry date.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Gather your registration certificate, authorization documents, and proof of identity.
Step 3: File Form TM-R
Submit Form TM-R (Application for Renewal of Registration of a Trademark) to the Trademark Registry. You can do this online or offline through your representative.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee
The renewal fee must be paid along with the application. It varies depending on whether you’re filing online or physically.
Step 5: Acknowledgment and Examination
Once filed, you’ll receive an acknowledgment. The Registrar reviews your application for any discrepancies.
Step 6: Publication in the Trademark Journal
If the renewal is accepted, it’s published in the Trademark Journal confirming your trademark’s validity for another 10 years.
Late Trademark Renewal and Restoration
If you miss renewing your trademark during the regular trademark renewal period, don’t worry — you still have a 6-month grace period after expiry.
During this grace period:
- You can still renew by paying an additional late fee.
- If this period lapses too, you must file Form TM-R with a restoration request and provide valid reasons for the delay.
However, restoration applications are subject to approval by the Registrar and can be denied if deemed unjustified. Hence, timely renewal is always advisable.
What Happens If You Don’t Renew Your Trademark?
Failing to renew your trademark has serious legal and commercial consequences:
- Loss of ownership and exclusive rights
- Brand vulnerability to infringement
- Removal from the official trademark register
- Costly and time-consuming restoration process
- Risk of others registering similar marks
Your brand identity is your business’s most valuable asset — losing it due to a missed renewal deadline can cause irreparable damage.
That’s why Corpmate ensures you never miss the trademark renewal period by offering timely reminders and complete renewal assistance.
Why Choose Corpmate for Trademark Renewal in Ludhiana?
Corpmate is a leading Trademark Consultant in Ludhiana, offering complete trademark registration, renewal, and compliance services. Here’s what makes us your ideal partner:
- On-Time Renewal Reminders: We track your trademark validity and send timely alerts.
- Hassle-Free Filing: From documentation to submission, we handle everything.
- Legal Accuracy: Our experts ensure your renewal complies with the Trademark Act, 1999.
- End-to-End Assistance: Whether you’re renewing, restoring, or registering a new trademark — we’ve got you covered.
- Local Expertise: Based in Ludhiana, we understand local businesses and their brand protection needs.
At Corpmate, we don’t just file renewals — we build long-term brand protection strategies that safeguard your intellectual property for years.
Tips to Manage Trademark Renewal Efficiently
- Maintain a record of your trademark registration date.
- Set renewal reminders at least 6 months in advance.
- Always keep your ownership details updated with the registry.
- Partner with professionals like Corpmate for timely renewals.
Conclusion
The trademark renewal period is your key to maintaining long-term ownership and protection of your brand identity. A timely renewal not only prevents legal complications but also enhances your business credibility.If your trademark renewal is due or you want expert assistance, Corpmate – Trademark Consultant in Ludhiana is here to help. Our experienced professionals ensure a smooth and compliant renewal process so your brand remains legally protected for years to come.