After filing a trademark application in India, the process takes 18–24 months. During this time, your application passes through several stages — each with a different status. Here is how to track exactly where your application is and what it means.

Method 1: Check on TM Public Search (Fastest)

The fastest way to check trademark status is at tmpublicsearch.com:

  1. Go to tmpublicsearch.com
  2. Enter your brand name or application number in the search box
  3. The current status will appear on your result card

Method 2: Check on IP India Official Portal

  1. Go to ipindia.gov.in
  2. Click on Trade Marks → TM Public Search
  3. Select search type: Application Number for the most precise result
  4. Enter your application number (format: XXXXXXXX)
  5. Click Search — your application details and current status will appear
Find Your Application Number

Your application number was issued at the time of filing. It is printed on your acknowledgement receipt (TM-A acknowledgement). It is an 8-digit number (e.g., 5478291).

What Each Status Means

StatusWhat it meansAction required?
New Application / FiledApplication received by registryNo — wait for examination
Formalities Check PassAdministrative check passedNo — wait for examination
Send to Vienna CodificationLogo codes being assigned (logo marks)No — normal step
Under ExaminationExaminer reviewing your applicationNo — wait
ObjectedExaminer raised issues⚠️ YES — reply within 30 days
AcceptedExaminer approved — publishing soonNo — wait for journal publication
Advertised Before AcceptancePublished in Trademarks JournalMonitor for 4 months opposition window
OpposedThird party filed opposition⚠️ YES — file counter-statement
RegisteredFully registered — certificate issuedNo — use ® now!
AbandonedApplication lapsedConsider re-filing
RefusedRegistrar refused applicationConsider appeal

If Your Application Shows "Objected"

This is the most common status that requires immediate action. When your application is Objected:

  1. Log into the IP India portal and download the Examination Report
  2. Read the objections carefully — they are typically: similarity to existing mark, or descriptiveness of the mark
  3. File a reply within 30 days (extendable by 30 more days with fee)
  4. If your reply is not sufficient, the examiner may call you for a hearing

Missing the 30-day deadline results in automatic abandonment. This is the most critical deadline in the trademark process.

Typical Timeline — What to Expect

StageExpected Timeline from Filing
Formalities check1–4 weeks
Vienna Codification (logo marks)1–3 months
Examination report / acceptance3–8 months
Publication in Trademarks Journal1–2 months after acceptance
Registration certificate1–2 months after opposition window
Total (no objections)18–24 months
Key Reminder

You can use ™ from the day you file — regardless of status. Only use ® after you receive your registration certificate. Using ® before registration is an offence under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.