Startup India Registration is an essential step for businesses to protect their brand names, logos, and slogans from unauthorized use by competitors. Registering a trademark provides legal recognition and exclusive rights to the owner, preventing others from using similar marks in the same industry. 

In India, the process of trademark registration can be conveniently done online, and the fee varies depending on the type of applicant and the number of classes of goods or services to be covered.

The fee structure for trademark registration online in India is governed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and can be categorized as follows:

Startup India Registration:

Startup India is an initiative launched by the Government of India to promote and support startups. While it is not directly related to trademark registration, it is worth mentioning that startups recognized under the Startup India Registration program may be eligible for certain fee concessions and benefits for trademark registration. However, the fee for Startup India registration itself is separate and unrelated to trademark registration.

Trademark Registration Fee:

For individuals, startups, and small enterprises who do not qualify for Startup India benefits, the fee for trademark registration online depends on the number of classes of goods or services to be covered under the trademark.

India follows the International Classification of Goods and Services under the Nice Agreement, which groups goods and services into 45 classes. Each class represents a different category of goods or services.

The fee structure for trademark registration in India, excluding any concessions, is as follows:

For filing an application for a single class of goods or services: INR 4,500 (approximately USD 60).

For each additional class beyond the first: INR 4,500 (approximately USD 60).

It's important to note that the mentioned fees are subject to change, and it's recommended to verify the current fee structure on the official website of the Trademarks Registry or consult a legal professional for accurate and up-to-date information.

The Online Trademark Registration Process Typically Involves The Following Steps:

• Trademark Search: Before filing an application, it is advisable to conduct a comprehensive search to ensure that the proposed trademark does not conflict with existing registered or pending trademarks.

• Filing the Application: The applicant can file the trademark registration application online through the official website of the Trademarks Registry. The application should include the required details, such as the mark itself, its description, the class(es) of goods or services, and supporting documents.

• Examination: After the application is filed, it undergoes a formal examination to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. This includes assessing the distinctiveness and uniqueness of the mark.

• Publication and Opposition: If the application passes the examination, it is published in the Trademarks Journal. During this period, third parties have an opportunity to oppose the registration if they believe it infringes upon their rights.

• Registration: If no opposition is raised within the specified time frame, or if an opposition is dismissed, the trademark registration is granted, and a registration certificate is issued.

Conclusion For Trademark Registration Online

In conclusion, the fee for trademark registration online in India depends on the number of classes of goods or services to be covered. For individuals, startups, and small enterprises, the fee for a single class is INR 4,500, with an additional fee for each additional class.

It's advisable to check the current fee structure and follow the prescribed process outlined by the Trademarks Registry. Startups recognized under the Startup India program may be eligible for certain fee concessions and Startup India Registration Benefits, but the fee for Startup India registration itself is separate.