One of the most common questions before filing is: "What documents do I need?" The good news — trademark registration in India requires minimal documentation, and scanned copies are accepted for everything. This complete checklist covers all applicant types.

Basic Documents Required for Everyone

  1. Brand Name or Logo Image
    • For Word Mark: Just the name in plain text
    • For Device Mark: JPG/PNG image, minimum 8x8 cm, 300 DPI
    • For Combined Mark: Logo with name in specific design
  2. Applicant Identity Proof
    • Individual: PAN Card + Aadhaar
    • Company: Certificate of Incorporation
    • LLP: LLP Agreement + Certificate
    • Partnership: Partnership Deed
  3. Address Proof
    • Latest utility bill (electricity, water, gas)
    • Lease/rental agreement
    • Property tax receipt
    • Bank statement
  4. Form TM-48 (Power of Attorney) — If filing through agent
  5. Class & Goods/Services Description — List of goods/services

Documents by Applicant Type

Individual / Sole Proprietor

  • PAN Card
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Address proof
  • Business registration (if any) — optional
  • Brand name / logo

Private Limited Company / Public Company

  • Certificate of Incorporation (MCA-issued)
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Authorized signatory's identity proof
  • Board Resolution authorizing trademark filing
  • Director's PAN and Aadhaar
  • Registered office address proof

LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)

  • LLP Certificate of Incorporation
  • LLP Agreement
  • Designated Partner identity proof
  • LLP PAN Card

Partnership Firm

  • Partnership Deed (registered or unregistered)
  • Partner identity proofs
  • Authorized partner authorization letter

Trust / Society

  • Trust Deed / Society Registration Certificate
  • Trustee/Office Bearer details
  • Authorization letter

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For Discounted Government Fees

For MSME Discount (₹4,500 instead of ₹9,000)

Required: Udyam Registration Certificate

  • Free at udyamregistration.gov.in
  • Apply with PAN, Aadhaar, business details
  • Permanent validity
  • Submit copy with trademark application

For Startup Discount (₹4,500 instead of ₹9,000)

Required: DPIIT Recognition Certificate

  • Apply at startupindia.gov.in
  • Valid for 10 years from incorporation
  • Need company registration
  • Should be working on innovation/scalable model

For Foreign Applicants

  1. Home Country Registration — Trademark certificate from home country (if any)
  2. Address for Service in India — Mandatory Indian address
  3. Authorized Indian Representative — Trademark agent or attorney
  4. Notarized POA — Power of Attorney (notarized in home country)
  5. Apostille — If country is Hague Apostille signatory
  6. Translation — Documents not in English need certified translation

Pro Tips for Document Preparation

💡 Tip 1: Use high-quality scans. Blurry documents may delay your application. Scan at 300 DPI minimum.

💡 Tip 2: For logo files, use vector formats (AI/SVG) when possible, then export to PNG for filing.

💡 Tip 3: If claiming prior use, gather strong evidence — invoices, advertising, social media posts dating back to first use.

💡 Tip 4: For company filings, ensure board resolution is properly drafted with specific authorization for trademark filing.

Conclusion

Trademark registration requires minimal documentation compared to many legal processes. With proper organization, the documentation burden is small. When in doubt, consult experts to verify document compliance before filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need original documents for trademark filing? +
No! All documents can be submitted as scanned copies. No physical originals or notarization needed for Indian applicants.
What is Form TM-48? +
Power of Attorney authorizing a trademark agent or lawyer to file on your behalf. Required when not filing yourself.
Do I need GST registration to file a trademark? +
No, GST registration is not required. You can file even without a GST number.
How do I prove first use of my trademark? +
Through invoices, advertising materials, packaging samples, social media posts, news articles, photos showing your mark in commercial use.
Can I file without business registration? +
Yes! Individuals can file as sole proprietors without separate business registration. Just identity proof needed.
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ipRIGHTS Expert Team

Our team of IP attorneys and trademark agents have helped hundreds of businesses across India protect their brands, copyrights, designs and patents.

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