Class 8 Trademark Registration Process & Timeline: How Long Does It Take? (2025)
Introduction
Trademark registration is a crucial step for businesses looking to protect their brand identity. For those dealing in hand tools, cutlery, and related products, Trademark Class 8 is the appropriate category. However, a common question that arises is: how long does it take to register a Class 8 trademark in India?
The answer depends on various factors such as the correctness of the application, government processing times, and potential objections. In this guide, we will break down the step-by-step timeline for Class 8 trademark registration in 2025, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the process and can plan accordingly.
Step-by-Step Trademark Registration Timeline for Class 8
1. Trademark Search (1-2 Days)
Before applying for a trademark, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive trademark search to check the availability of your desired brand name. This search helps identify:
- Existing similar trademarks
- Potential conflicts that may lead to objections or rejections
- Opportunities to modify the application for a higher success rate
A professional trademark attorney or an online database search can complete this process within 1-2 days.
2. Trademark Application Filing (1-3 Days)
Once the search confirms that your desired trademark is available, the next step is to file a trademark application with the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India.
The application requires:
- Trademark name/logo
- Business details (applicant’s name, address, type of business)
- Class of goods/services (Class 8 for hand tools and cutlery)
- Description of goods/services
- Power of Attorney (if applying through a trademark agent)
This process typically takes 1-3 days if all documents are prepared correctly.
3. Formalities Check (3-7 Days)
After submission, the Trademark Registry examines the application to ensure it complies with the rules and requirements. The key aspects checked include:
- Proper classification under Class 8
- Completeness of the application
- Proper documentation
If everything is in order, the application moves to the next stage. If errors are found, the registry may send a clarification request, which can delay the process by several days to weeks depending on the response time.
4. Examination by the Trademark Office (30-90 Days)
The Trademark Examiner reviews the application to assess:
- Uniqueness of the trademark
- Similarity to existing trademarks
- Compliance with legal requirements
If the examiner finds no issues, the trademark is accepted and published in the Trademark Journal. However, if there are concerns, an examination report is issued with objections, requiring the applicant to respond.
This stage typically takes 1-3 months (30-90 days).
5. Reply to Examination Report (30-60 Days, If Required)
If objections are raised in the Examination Report, the applicant must respond within 30 days. The response must:
- Justify why the trademark is unique and should be registered
- Provide evidence of brand use (if applicable)
- Address any legal concerns raised by the examiner
The trademark office may accept the response and proceed with registration or call for a hearing, which can further extend the timeline by 1-2 months.
6. Trademark Journal Publication (4 Months)
If the trademark is accepted, it is published in the Trademark Journal for public review for 4 months. During this period, any third party can oppose the registration if they believe it infringes upon their existing trademark rights.
If no opposition is filed within these 4 months, the trademark proceeds to registration.
If opposition is filed, the process can be delayed further as a legal hearing is required to settle the dispute.
7. Trademark Registration Certificate Issuance (1-2 Months)
Once the opposition period ends without objections, or if opposition is ruled in favor of the applicant, the final Trademark Registration Certificate is issued. This usually takes 1-2 months, after which the trademark is officially registered and valid for 10 years.
Total Estimated Time for Class 8 Trademark Registration
| Stage | Estimated Time |
| Trademark Search | 1-2 Days |
| Application Filing | 1-3 Days |
| Formalities Check | 3-7 Days |
| Examination | 30-90 Days |
| Reply to Examination Report (If Required) | 30-60 Days |
| Journal Publication & Opposition Period | 4 Months |
| Registration Certificate Issuance | 1-2 Months |
| Total Time (If No Opposition) | 8-12 Months |
| Total Time (If Opposition Occurs) | 12-24 Months |
If there are no objections or oppositions, the Class 8 trademark registration process can take 8-12 months.
If objections or oppositions occur, the process can take up to 24 months or longer.
Factors That Can Delay the Class 8 Trademark Registration Process
1. Incorrect Documentation
Any errors in the application, such as missing signatures, incorrect classification, or incomplete details, can result in delays.
2. Objections from the Trademark Examiner
If the examiner finds issues with the application, responding to objections and attending hearings can extend the timeline by several months.
3. Opposition from Third Parties
If another business or individual files an opposition, legal proceedings may take 6-12 months or longer to resolve.
4. Processing Delays by the Trademark Registry
Due to a high volume of applications, government processing times can sometimes extend beyond expected timelines.
How to Speed Up Class 8 Trademark Registration?
- Conduct a Thorough Trademark Search – Ensure your brand name is unique before applying.
- File an Error-Free Application – Double-check details and attach correct documents.
- Respond to Objections Promptly – If objections arise, submit well-prepared responses quickly.
- Monitor Application Status – Regularly check for updates on the IP India website.
- Hire a Trademark Expert – Professionals can help avoid mistakes and speed up the process.
Conclusion
Registering a Class 8 trademark for hand tools and cutlery in India is a vital step in securing your brand. While the average timeline is 8-12 months, objections and oppositions can extend this period to 24 months or more. To avoid unnecessary delays, businesses should perform thorough searches, file error-free applications, and respond quickly to any objections.
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in hassle-free trademark registration services. Our team ensures smooth processing, timely responses, and expert guidance throughout the application journey. Contact us today to protect your Class 8 brand and gain exclusive rights to your trademark.