Can We File Joint Application for Trademark Registration in India? 

At Ebizfiling, we often receive this interesting query from founders and business partners: “Can we file a joint application for trademark registration in India?” The short answer is yes, it is possible. But before you go ahead, it is important to understand what joint trademark ownership means, how it works in India, and what you should keep in mind.

What Does Joint Application for Trademark Registration Mean?  

When two or more people decide to register a trademark together, it is called a joint application. In such cases, both applicants are considered joint owners of the trademark. For example, if two co-founders create a brand name, they can apply jointly so that both enjoy equal rights over the trademark.

This kind of registration ensures that the brand is not tied to only one individual and reflects the shared ownership.

Is Joint Ownership Allowed in India?  

Yes, the Indian Trademark Act allows a joint application for trademark registration. But the law makes one thing obvious; both applicants must have a genuine claim over the brand. That means they must be co-founders, business partners, or joint creators of the mark.

In our experience, this option works well for startups and partnerships where more than one person is directly responsible for building the brand.

Benefits of Joint Application for Trademark Registration  

From what we have seen while handling trademark filings, joint applications offer certain advantages:

• Both partners enjoy equal rights over the brand.

• It avoids disputes where one person claims sole ownership.

• It reflects the true partnership behind the business.

• It provides legal protection to all applicants under one filing.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Filing Jointly  

Even though joint ownership is allowed, it does come with some conditions. Based on our work with clients, here are key points you should know:

• Both applicants must be mentioned in the application as joint proprietors.

• Any decision about the trademark, including licensing or assignment, must be agreed by all owners.

• Disagreements between joint owners can complicate brand management.

• If one partner exits the business, ownership rights may need to be restructured legally.

Process of Filing a Joint Application in India  

The process is similar to a normal trademark application, except that both applicants’ details must be included.

1. Choose the brand name or logo you wish to register.

2. Conduct a trademark search to check if it is unique.

3. File the application online at the IP India portal with both applicants’ details.

4. Submit required documents like ID proof, partnership details, and business information.

5. Pay the applicable government fees.

6. Track the status and respond to objections, if any.

At Ebizfiling, we guide clients through this process step by step to ensure both co-owners are properly represented in the application.

Our Advice  

So, if you are wondering whether you can file a joint application for trademark registration in India, the answer is yes, you can. But make sure that both owners are on the same page and understand their shared responsibilities. Joint ownership works best when the partnership is strong and decisions can be made together.

For founders, co-creators, and partners, this is a smart way to protect your brand without leaving ownership in the hands of just one individual.

Suggested Read :

IP India (IPIndiaOnline) Trademark Registration

Trademark Registration Trends in India 2025

Recent Updates in Trademark Registration in India (2025)

Importance of USPTO Trademark Registration for Companies

FAQs on the Trademark Registration under Madrid System

FAQs on Joint Application for Trademark Registration