TRADEMARK REGISTRATION IN PAKISTAN
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Filing a trademark application in Pakistan with Aims Associates Experts
A trademark is a unique word, phrase, symbol, or design that distinguishes the goods of one party from another. Service marks serve a similar role, identifying the source of a service rather than a product.
How to Register a Trademark in Pakistan?
For business owners and service providers across Lahore and Pakistan, protecting intellectual property through trademark registration is essential. Aims Associates provides expert trademark registration services nationwide. Many in Pakistan are unfamiliar with the registration process, and Aims Associates is here to bridge that knowledge gap.
The Intellectual Property Organisation of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan) has expanded its services in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, enhancing accessibility for trademark registration.
Aims Associates guides clients, including new entrepreneurs, through every stage of trademark registration, ensuring brands are protected and distinguished in the marketplace.
Who Can Apply for a Trademark in Pakistan?
Trademark applications can be filed by:
- Individuals
- Partnership Firms
- Corporations (private, public, LLPs, and NGOs)
Advantages of Trademark Registration in Pakistan
Trademark registration in Pakistan offers numerous benefits, such as:
- Exclusive Rights: trademark ownership and exclusive use.
- Trust and Goodwill: Enhances brand recognition and consumer trust.
- Product differentiation: sets products apart from competitors.
- Long-Term Protection: Valid for 10 years with renewable rights.
- Increased Market Value: Trademarked brands are valued higher in the marketplace.
- Legal Protection: Protects against brand infringement.
Trademark Searches Before Filing an Application
Before filing, conducting a trademark search is highly recommended. While optional, this step checks for identical or similar trademarks, reducing future legal conflicts and ensuring brand uniqueness.
- Benefit 1: It verifies if a similar trademark is already in use.
- Benefit 2: The IPO prioritises registration for the first company using a particular trademark, protecting it from future infringements.
Trademark Application Classification
Trademark applications in Pakistan are classified into 45 classes based on goods and services, in line with the Trademark Ordinance 2001. Goods fall under classes 1–34, and services are covered in classes 35–45, based on the Nice Classification.
Registering a Trademark with Colour Claims
The Trademark Ordinance 2001 allows for the registration of color(s) in a trademark. Applications may specify one or more colours, or none, to protect branding consistency.
Trademark Registration Process in Pakistan
Aims Associates provides a seamless trademark registration process in Pakistan. The steps include:
1. Trademark Search: The applicant files a TM Form 55 for a trademark search. This optional step checks if a similar trademark is registered.
2. Trademark Application: If no similar mark exists, the applicant proceeds with TM Form 1 or TM Form 2, depending on their specific requirements.
Required Documents:
- Application Form
- Personal or company details (name, address, nationality, etc.)
- Description of goods or services
- Trademark design or logo
- Power of Attorney for the legal representative
- Proof of payment for application fees
Once filed, IPO Pakistan issues an acknowledgement within 15 days, with an examination report following within three months.
3. Objections and Resolution: If objections arise, IPO Pakistan issues a notice. The applicant has two months to respond and may proceed to defend the application if needed.
4. Publication in Digital Journal: Approved trademarks are published in the IPO’s monthly digital journal, accessible online for public viewing.
5. Trademark Registration Certificate: After the publication period, and if no objections are raised, the applicant is issued a registration certificate upon paying the necessary fees and filing TM Form 11.
6. Trademark Renewal: The trademark is valid for 10 years, with renewal available via TM Form 12.
Trademark Form Fees in Pakistan
Each form in the registration process has a fee. Here is an outline of major forms:
| Form Type | Purpose | Fee (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| TM-01 | Application for goods/services | 3,000 |
| TM-02 | Specific goods/services registration | 3,000 |
| TM-05 | Notice of dispute | 9,000 |
| TM-06 | Answer to notice of dispute | 1,500 |
| TM-11 | Application for certificate | 9,000 |
| TM-12 | Trademark renewal | 15,000 |
| TM-13 | Restoration of trademark | 3,000 |
| TM-55 | Request for trademark search | 1,000 |
Issuance and Validity of Trademark Certificate
Upon approval, the registrar issues a trademark registration certificate. Registered trademarks are valid for 10 years and may be renewed under Section 35 of the Trademark Ordinance 2001.
Trademark Renewal Process in Pakistan
Section 35 allows for trademark renewal up to 6 months before expiry. The renewal fee is PKR 15,000, and late renewals require an additional PKR 3,000 restoration fee.
How Long Does Trademark Registration Take?
The entire process, from application submission to certificate issuance, typically takes around 18 months.
Why Choose Aims Associates for Trademark Registration in Pakistan?
Aims Associates specialises in trademark registration services, ensuring clients meet all IPO requirements efficiently. Our experienced attorneys manage the application process, helping clients secure registration certificates swiftly and reliably.