Asktrix

Trademark Renewal

Trademark Renewal is the process of maintaining the legal protection of a registered trademark by extending its validity. In India, trademarks are registered under the Trademarks Act, 1999, which provides a 10-year protection period, renewable indefinitely every 10 years. Renewal ensures that the trademark remains exclusive and continues to provide legal protection to the brand.

Importance of Trademark Renewal

  • Continuous Legal Protection: Renewal maintains exclusive rights, preventing unauthorized use.
  • Brand Recognition: Keeps the trademark intact, reinforcing brand identity and consumer trust.
  • Economic Advantage: Protects the economic value of the brand, allowing for sustained revenue and market presence.
  • Protection from Third-Party Claims: Prevents others from claiming the trademark, reducing the risk of legal issues and infringement.

When and How to Renew a Trademark

  • Renewal Period: A trademark must be renewed every 10 years from the date of registration. The renewal can be filed as early as six months before expiration and up to six months post-expiration with an additional surcharge.
  • Late Renewal: If not renewed within six months post-expiration, the trademark may be removed from the register, but restoration is possible within one year of expiration.

Process for Trademark Renewal

  • Filing the Renewal Application: Complete and file Form TM-R with the Indian Trademark Registry. The application must include details of the trademark, class, and applicant details, along with the renewal fee.
  • Payment of Renewal Fee: Pay the renewal fee to maintain the trademark's validity for the next 10 years.
  • Issuance of Trademark Renewal Certificate: After successful review and processing, the Trademark Registrar issues a renewal certificate, confirming the extended protection.
  • Publishing in the Trademark Journal: The renewed trademark is published in the Trademark Journal, confirming its continuation and notifying the public.

Legal Requirements under the Trademarks Act, 1999

  • Section 25 of the Trademarks Act, 1999: Governs trademark renewal in India.
  • Removal for Non-Renewal: If a trademark is not renewed within the specified period, it may be removed from the register under Section 25(3).
  • Restoration: Restoration is allowed under Section 25(4), permitting the trademark to be restored within one year of the expiry date, subject to an additional fee.

Eligibility Criteria for Trademark Renewal

  • Trademark Owner or Authorized Agent: Only the registered owner or a legally authorized agent can apply for renewal.
  • Registered Trademarks Only: The trademark must be registered with the Trademark Registry in India.

Documents Required for Trademark Renewal

  • Copy of the Original Registration Certificate: A copy of the trademark's original registration certificate.
  • Power of Attorney: If filed by an authorized agent or attorney, a power of attorney document must be submitted.
  • Trademark Renewal Application Form (Form TM-R): The official form required for filing the renewal application.
  • Proof of Identity of the applicant or authorized person: Valid proof of identity of the applicant or the authorized person submitting the renewal.
  • Trademark Details: Include the registration number, trademark class, and any other relevant trademark details.

Benefits of Trademark Renewal

  • Extended Exclusive Rights: Retains sole rights to the trademark, preventing others from using similar marks.
  • Increased Brand Value: A well-maintained trademark enhances brand reputation and consumer trust.
  • Legal Shield: Protects against infringement, imitation, and misuse.
  • Transferability: A renewed trademark can be licensed or sold, creating additional revenue.

Example Calculation of Costs

Suppose the renewal fee is ₹5,000 and the applicant delays renewal by three months post-expiration, incurring a surcharge of 50%. The total cost would be:

  • Renewal Fee: ₹5,000
  • Surcharge: ₹2,500
  • Total: ₹7,500

Difference between Trademark Renewal and Trademark Registration

Criteria Trademark Registration Trademark Renewal
Purpose Protects a new brand or logo Extends the protection of an existing trademark
Validity 10 years from registration date 10 years from renewal date
Application Form Form TM-A Form TM-R
Required by New businesses or brands Existing trademark holders
Risk of Non-Compliance Loss of exclusive rights if not registered Trademark removal from register if not renewed
Restoration Possibility Not applicable Restoration possible within one year of expiry
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs cover essential details like eligibility, required documents, process steps, and benefits. It helps clarify common queries about setup, compliance, costs, and timelines.

How often do I need to renew my trademark?

Trademarks must be renewed every 10 years from the date of registration. The renewal can be filed as early as six months before expiration and up to six months post-expiration with an additional surcharge.

What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?

If not renewed within six months post-expiration, the trademark may be removed from the register. However, restoration is possible within one year of expiration, subject to an additional fee.

Can a trademark be restored after it is removed?

Yes, restoration is allowed under Section 25(4) of the Trademarks Act, 1999, permitting the trademark to be restored within one year of the expiry date, subject to an additional fee.

What is the renewal fee for trademarks in India?

The renewal fee varies based on the trademark class and filing method. For individual applicants, the fee is ₹5,000 per class, while for companies it's ₹10,000 per class.

Can I renew a trademark if I'm not the owner?

Only the registered owner or a legally authorized agent can apply for renewal. If you're not the owner, you need a power of attorney document to file the renewal application.

What if my trademark renewal application is rejected?

If the renewal application is rejected, you can file an appeal with the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB) within 60 days of the rejection order.

How long does it take for a renewal application to process?

The renewal application typically takes 2-3 months to process after submission, provided all documents are complete and fees are paid correctly.

Do I get a new certificate after renewal?

Yes, after successful renewal, the Trademark Registrar issues a renewal certificate confirming the extended protection for the next 10 years.

Trademark renewal is an essential process to ensure continuous legal protection of your brand identity and to maintain exclusive rights in the marketplace. At Asktrix, we assist clients through every step of the renewal process, providing guidance on compliance under the Trademarks Act, 1999, and ensuring that their intellectual property rights remain safeguarded.

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