Trademark registration is a crucial step in protecting your brand’s identity. Once you’ve filed a trademark application with the Trademark Registry of India, it is important to monitor its status regularly. Checking the status helps in identifying objections, oppositions, or delays, and enables timely action. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process on how to check trademark application status in India and answers all related queries.
What is a Trademark Application?
A trademark application is a formal request filed with the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Once filed, the trademark goes through multiple stages such as examination, publication, opposition (if any), and registration.
Monitoring the status of your trademark ensures you are up-to-date with its legal standing and can promptly respond to any objections or third-party oppositions.
Why It’s Important to Check Trademark Application Status
Regularly checking the status of your trademark application is essential for several reasons:
- To track progress: Understand at which stage your application currently stands.
- To respond to objections: If the trademark examiner raises objections, you must reply within a stipulated time.
- To address oppositions: Third parties can oppose your application during the advertisement phase.
- To avoid abandonment: Ignoring notices or delays in responding can lead to the application being abandoned.
- To confirm registration: Final confirmation of approval and registration is reflected in the status.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Trademark Application Status Online
The Intellectual Property India website provides a free and easy way to check the status of your trademark application. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the IP India Website
Go to the official website of the Intellectual Property India:
https://ipindia.gov.in
Step 2: Navigate to ‘Trade Marks’
On the homepage, click on the ‘Trade Marks’ tab in the top navigation menu.
Step 3: Select ‘Related Links’
Scroll down and under the ‘Trade Marks’ section, find and click on ‘Related Links’.
Step 4: Click on ‘Trademark Application/Registered Mark’
Now select ‘Trademark Application/Registered Mark’ from the list of links. This will redirect you to the Trademark Search and Status portal.
You can directly access this portal here:
https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/eregister/eregister.aspx
Step 5: Enter the Application Number
Enter your Trademark Application Number (e.g., 1234567) in the search box. This is the 7-digit number you received after submitting your application.
⚠️ Important: You must enter the number without spaces or any special characters.
Step 6: View Application Status
Click on ‘View’. The application status page will display various details, including:
- Application Number
- Applicant Name
- Class of Trademark
- Status of the Application
- Important Dates (e.g., filing date, hearing date)
- Examination Reports (if issued)
- Documents filed
Common Trademark Application Statuses and Their Meaning
Understanding the terminology used in the status can help you make informed decisions. Here are some common statuses:
1. New Application
The application has been successfully filed and is awaiting examination.
2. Formalities Chk Pass
The application has passed the initial check for completeness of documentation.
3. Marked for Examination
The application has been assigned to an examiner for further scrutiny.
4. Objected
The examiner has raised objections under Section 9 or Section 11 of the Trade Marks Act. You need to file a reply within one month.
5. Advertised Before Acceptance
The trademark is published in the Trade Marks Journal before being accepted.
6. Opposed
A third party has filed an opposition within the prescribed 4-month period. You must file a counter-statement to defend your application.
7. Accepted and Advertised
The application has been accepted and published in the journal. It awaits the opposition period to end.
8. Registered
Congratulations! The trademark has been approved and registered. You will receive the Registration Certificate.
9. Abandoned
The application is deemed abandoned due to failure in responding to objections or oppositions.
10. Withdrawn
The applicant has voluntarily withdrawn the application.
What to Do Based on the Status
Depending on your application status, you may need to take specific actions:
- If Objected: Consult a trademark attorney and file a strong reply.
- If Opposed: File a counter-statement and prepare for hearings.
- If Advertised: Monitor for oppositions.
- If Registered: Use the ® symbol and start enforcing your rights.
- If Abandoned: Re-file the application after understanding the reason for abandonment.
Trademark Journal – A Tool to Track Status
The Trademark Journal is a weekly publication issued by the Trademark Registry. It lists all accepted trademarks that are open for opposition.
You can access the journal at:
https://ipindia.gov.in/writereaddata/Portal/IPOJournal/1_5544_1/Journal_1104.pdf
(Search for your application by name or number.)
If your application is listed, the 4-month window for oppositions has begun.
How Often Should You Check the Status?
It is advisable to check the trademark status:
- Once a week for new applications
- Immediately after filing the application
- After replying to an objection
- After publication in the journal
- Regularly during the opposition period
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking the status for months
- Missing deadlines to respond to objections
- Assuming the application is registered once it’s published
- Not keeping track of hearing dates
- Not consulting a legal expert for objected or opposed applications
How Corpmate Can Help?
At Corpmate, we offer complete assistance with trademark filing, monitoring, objection handling, opposition replies, and registration support. Our experts track your application status regularly and ensure you never miss a deadline.
With our support, you can focus on growing your business while we protect your brand identity.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check the trademark application status is vital for every brand owner. It empowers you to act promptly, safeguard your rights, and ensure a smooth registration process. By using the official IP India portal and understanding the status meanings, you can stay ahead in the legal process.If you are unsure about any status or need help at any stage of your trademark journey, Corpmate is here to guide you with expert legal and compliance services.