Businesses often wonder whether they can register both their logo and wordmark in one trademark application to save costs and simplify the process. Under Indian Trademark Law, it is possible to apply for both in a single application through what is called a composite trademark registration. However, this type of registration comes with certain limitations that business owners should carefully understand before filing.
The Trade Marks Act, 1999 allows businesses to register words, logos, or a combination of both. When both are applied together, the mark is filed as a Device Mark (composite trademark).
Section 17 of the Act states that registration of a composite mark protects the whole but does not automatically extend rights to individual elements unless they are registered separately.
This means your exclusive rights are over the combined logo + wordmarke, not over the text or design independently.
Choose the Class: Select the correct class of goods/services as per the Nice Classification system.
Prepare the Composite Mark: Combine your logo design and wordmark into a single representation.
File the Application: Submit Form TM–A on ipindia.gov.in under the category “Device Mark.”
Government Fees: Pay fees per class (₹4,500 for startups/SMEs and ₹9,000 for others).
Examination & Publication: The trademark office examines the application and, if approved, publishes it in the journal.
Registration: If no opposition arises, the mark is registered for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
|
Applicant Type |
Fee per Application (per class) |
|
Startups/SMEs |
₹4,500 |
|
Others |
₹9,000 |
(As per Trade Marks Rules, 2017)
Advantages:
One filing lowers the logo trademark cost.
Suitable if the logo and wordmark are always used together.
Simplifies the logo registration process.
Limitations:
No independent rights over the word or logo.
If the logo design changes, a new application must be filed.
Limited enforcement compared to separate applications.
Conclusion
Yes, in India you can apply for logo and wordmark registration in a single application by filing a composite trademark. But keep in mind that this protects only the combined form. If you want wider and stronger protection, you may need to file separate applications for your logo and wordmark. To avoid costly mistakes, many businesses choose professional assistance from service providers like EbizFiling, who handle the entire process smoothly.
How to Check Trademark Availability in India?
How to Choose a Right Trademark?
Types of Trademark Registration in India
Can I Change Logo Colors After TM Application?
Yes. You can file a composite trademark application under the “Device Mark” category. This protects the combined version of your wordmark and logo.
No. It only covers the combination. To protect the word independently, you must file a separate wordmark registration.
The main benefit is reduced cost and convenience, as you only need to file one application for both logo and wordmark.
The limitation is that you cannot enforce rights over the word or logo separately. If your logo changes, you must file a new application.
For startups and SMEs, the government fee is ₹4,500 per class. For others, it is ₹9,000 per class.
Yes. You can file a separate wordmark application. Many businesses do this to ensure the brand name is protected across different styles and formats.
Not mandatory, but highly recommended. It prevents misuse or unauthorized copying of your brand identity.
Yes. You can register only the design (device mark) if you want exclusive rights over your logo symbol.
Once registered, a trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
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