Legal Process to Register a Brand Logo, Trademark, and Name in Pakistan

In Pakistan, registering a trademark is one of the smartest ways to protect your brand identity. Whether you are registering a brand name, logo, slogan, or a combination (composite mark), the process is governed by the Trade Marks Ordinance, 2001 and managed by the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan). A registered trademark gives you exclusive legal rights to use the mark for specific goods or services, prevents others from copying it, and allows you to use the ® symbol.40

Why Register Your Trademark?

• Legal protection against infringement
• Builds brand value and trust
• Easier to take action in courts
• Valid for 10 years (renewable indefinitely)
• Essential for e-commerce, exports, and franchising

Note: You can register a word mark (brand name), device mark (logo), or both together.

Step-by-Step Legal Process to Register a Trademark in Pakistan

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search (Highly Recommended)

Before filing, check if your brand name or logo is already registered or too similar to existing marks. This avoids rejection and saves money.

• File Form TM-55 (Search Application) with IPO-Pakistan.
• Submit two clear representations of your mark (for logos, use high-quality JPEG or printed on paper).
• Fee: PKR 1,000 per class.54
• You can also do a preliminary online search via the IPO portal, but an official TM-55 search is more reliable.

Tip: Always search in the correct Nice Classification class (there are 45 classes for goods and services). One application = one class.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Once the search is clear, prepare the application. The mark must be distinctive (not descriptive or generic) and not deceptive or against public morality.

Required Details in Application:

• Applicant’s full name, address, and nationality (individual or company)
• Nature of business (e.g., “Manufacturer”, “Merchant”, or service provider)
• Clear representation of the mark (JPEG for logo)
• List of goods/services with exact class number
• Date of first use in Pakistan (if already in use) or “proposed to be used”
• Power of Attorney (if filing through an IP attorney – must be notarized for foreigners)

Step 3: File the Trademark Application

• Form: TM-01 (normal application) or TM-02 (if claiming priority from a convention country).
• Fee: PKR 3,000 per class (official filing fee).44
• How to File:
  • Preferred: Online through the IPO e-filing portal → https://apply.ipo.gov.pk/ (create account with registered mobile number).
  • Alternative: Physical filing at IPO offices (Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore counter).

You will receive an official filing receipt with an application number and filing date (this is your priority date).

Step 4: Examination by IPO-Pakistan

• The Registrar examines the application for:
  • Formal requirements
  • Distinctiveness
  • Conflict with existing trademarks
• If objections are raised, you receive an Examination Report.
• You must reply within the given time (usually 1–2 months) or request an extension.
• If accepted, the mark proceeds to publication.

Step 5: Publication in the Trademarks Journal

• Your mark is advertised in the monthly Trademarks Journal (publicly available on IPO website).
• This opens the opposition period (2 months).

Step 6: Opposition Proceedings (If Any)

• Any third party can file opposition using Form TM-05 (Fee: PKR 9,000).
• You must file a counter-statement using Form TM-06 (Fee: PKR 1,500).
• Both sides may submit evidence and attend a hearing.
• If no opposition is filed (or you win the opposition), the mark moves to registration.

Step 7: Registration and Certificate Issuance

• Pay the registration fee using Form TM-11 (Fee: PKR 9,000).
• IPO issues the official Registration Certificate.
• Your trademark is now registered and protected nationwide.

Total official government fees (one class, no opposition): Approximately PKR 13,000–15,000 (search + filing + registration).60

Step 8: Renewal and Maintenance

• Validity: 10 years from the filing date.
• Renewal: Every 10 years using Form TM-12 (Fee: PKR 15,000 + late fee if applicable).40

Required Documents (Summary)

• TM-01 / TM-55 forms (duly filled)
• Clear mark representation (logo in JPEG or print)
• CNIC / NTN / Company registration documents
• Power of Attorney (if through lawyer)
• Proof of address and business nature

Timeline

• Smooth process (no opposition): 12–18 months from filing to certificate.
• With opposition or objections: Can take 2–3 years or longer.

Important Tips for Success

• File in the correct class(es) – wrong class leads to rejection.
• Hire a licensed IP attorney or trademark agent for complex logos, international filings, or opposition cases.
• Start using ™ immediately (unregistered), but use ® only after registration.
• Keep records of use – it strengthens your rights.
• Foreign applicants can file directly or through local agents (no residency required).

Where to Go?

• Official Website: https://ipo.gov.pk/
• Online Portal: https://apply.ipo.gov.pk/
• Trade Marks Registry: Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan, Islamabad (main office) with counters in major cities.

Disclaimer: Fees and procedures are based on the latest available information from IPO-Pakistan. Always verify the current fee schedule and forms on the official IPO website, as minor changes can occur. For personalized advice, consult a qualified intellectual property lawyer.

Registering your brand name and logo is an investment in your business’s future. Protect it today to own your brand tomorrow!

If you need help with specific forms, class selection, or a professional filing service in Lahore or anywhere in Pakistan, feel free to reach out to a registered trademark attorney.

For Legal Assistance in Lahore and Pakistan, Visit: https://sohaibnsultan.pk/