Trademark & IP Protection in India — Trademark, Copyright & Patent

Trademark — protect your brand name & logo

A trademark protects your brand name, logo or slogan. You file under the relevant class(es) of goods/services with the Trade Marks Registry. Once filed you can use ™; after registration you can use ®. Registration lasts 10 years and is renewable.

Copyright vs patent

Copyright automatically protects original creative works (writing, software, art, music) and can be registered for stronger proof. A patent protects a new, non-obvious invention for 20 years but requires a detailed application and examination. Use each for what it covers.

Choosing the right protection

Most businesses start with a trademark for their brand. Software and content owners rely on copyright; product/process inventors seek patents. You can hold all three for different assets. Search existing registrations before filing to avoid objections.

Guides on this topic

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• Udyam (MSME) Registration: Free Online Process & Benefits (India 2026)
• How to Register an LLP in India: FiLLiP Process, Documents & vs Pvt Ltd
• Partnership Firm Registration in India: Registered vs Unregistered (2026)
• Startup India DPIIT Recognition & the Section 80-IAC Tax Holiday
• Private Limited vs LLP vs OPC — Which to Register in India (2026)
• Sole Proprietorship vs Partnership vs LLP — Which Suits You? (India)
• Trademark vs Copyright vs Patent — Which IP Protection Do You Need? (India)

Related services

• Partnership Firm Registration
• Trademark Search
• Trademark Registration
• Trademark Objection Response
• Trademark Renewal
• Trademark Certificate Issuance
• Patent Application Filing
• Copyright Registration
• Design Registration
• Partnership/LLP Income Tax Filing

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between ™ and ®?

™ can be used as soon as you file (or even claim) a trademark; ® can be used only after the mark is registered. Using ® on an unregistered mark is not permitted.

Trademark, copyright or patent — which do I need?

A trademark protects your brand name/logo, copyright protects original creative works (including software/content), and a patent protects a new invention. Many businesses need a trademark first.

How long does a trademark last in India?

A registered trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year blocks. Use ™ while the application is pending and ® once registered.