What can be protected by trademark registration in Pakistan
- Words and brand names.
- Logos and devices.
- Slogans and taglines, if distinctive.
- Combinations of colours, shapes and packaging, subject to distinctiveness.
Marks that are purely descriptive, deceptive or identical to an earlier registered mark for similar goods are likely to be refused.
Classes and specification
Goods and services are divided into classes under the international Nice Classification. A separate application, or a separate class within an application as the Registry permits, is needed for each class. Choosing the specification is important: too narrow leaves gaps; too broad invites objection and may be vulnerable to removal for non-use.
Steps of trademark registration in Pakistan
- Clearance search of the Registry's records for identical and similar marks.
- Filing the application online or at the Registry with the prescribed fee, the mark and the specification.
- Examination by the Registry on absolute and relative grounds; we reply to any objection.
- Acceptance and advertisement in the Trade Marks Journal.
- Opposition period, during which third parties may oppose the application.
- If unopposed or the opposition fails, registration and issue of the certificate.
The overall time depends on the Registry's workload and whether objections or oppositions arise; we do not promise a fixed timeline.
Duration and renewal
A registered trade mark in Pakistan is valid for ten years and can be renewed for further periods of ten years. Use it consistently: a mark that is not used for a continuous period set by the Ordinance may be vulnerable to removal.
Enforcing trademark registration in Pakistan
Cease-and-desist
A legal notice is often enough to stop an infringer.
Infringement suit
A civil suit for injunction, damages and delivery-up before the IP Tribunal.
Passing off
Even unregistered marks may be protected where goodwill can be proved.
Trade marks and company names
A company name registered with the SECP is not a trade mark. Founders often assume that company registration in Karachi protects their brand; it does not. Register both. For original works such as software, artwork and written content, consider copyright registration in Pakistan.
Protection abroad
A Pakistani registration protects the mark in Pakistan only. If you export or sell online to other countries, consider filing there too, directly or through the international system where available.
Choosing a strong mark before trademark registration in Pakistan
The strongest marks are invented or arbitrary words with no meaning for the goods — for instance, a made-up name for a clothing brand. Descriptive names such as "Best Biryani" or "Karachi Tailors" are hard to register and harder to enforce. Geographical names and common surnames also face objections.
Before investing in signage, packaging and a website, run a clearance search. Changing a brand after launch is far more expensive than choosing well at the start.
Objections during trademark registration in Pakistan
Absolute grounds
The Registry may object that a mark lacks distinctive character, is descriptive, is deceptive or is contrary to public policy. A written reply with arguments and evidence of use can overcome some objections.
Relative grounds
The Registry may cite an earlier mark that is identical or similar for similar goods or services. We consider whether the specification can be narrowed or whether coexistence evidence helps.
Opposition proceedings
After advertisement in the Trade Marks Journal, any person may oppose the application within the period allowed. The applicant then files a counter-statement, both sides file evidence, and the Registrar decides after a hearing. Opposition can also be used offensively — to stop a competitor registering a mark similar to yours. Monitoring the Journal is a good habit for established brands.
Documents for trademark registration in Pakistan
- A clear image of the logo, or the word mark in plain text.
- The list of goods or services and the relevant classes.
- Applicant details: CNIC for an individual, incorporation documents for a company.
- Date of first use in Pakistan, if the mark is already in use.
- A power of attorney authorising the filing agent.
After registration: keeping the mark alive
- Use the mark consistently as registered.
- Record changes of ownership, name or address with the Registry.
- Renew before the ten-year term expires.
- Watch for similar applications and act against infringers promptly.
For trademark registration, message us on WhatsApp at +92 333 1127830 or visit our Gulistan-e-Jauhar office at Mezzanine Floor, Muneer Mobile Mall, Block 17, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Karachi.
Trademark, copyright and company name compared
Three different registrations protect three different things.
| Registration | Protects | Office | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade mark | Brand names, logos and slogans used in trade | Trade Marks Registry, IPO-Pakistan | 10 years, renewable |
| Copyright | Original works such as text, art and software | Copyright Office, IPO-Pakistan | Generally life of author plus 50 years |
| Company name | The legal name of the company | SECP | While the company exists |
| Design | Appearance of a product | Designs Registry, IPO-Pakistan | Fixed term, renewable |
Using your mark correctly
Use the mark as it was registered — same spelling and logo — and for the goods or services covered. Change of logo may require a new application. Licensing the mark to franchisees or distributors should be in writing, with quality control, and recorded where the law provides.
Online marketplaces and social media
Most major platforms have brand-protection procedures that work far better with a registered mark. A registration certificate allows you to report counterfeit listings and impersonating pages. Keep a record of each takedown request and the platform's response.
Customs and counterfeit goods
Where counterfeit goods are imported, the Customs authorities can act on infringing consignments in accordance with the law. Rights holders should keep their registration details and samples of genuine products available to support enforcement.
Why businesses invest in trademark registration in Pakistan
Trademark registration turns a brand from something you use into something you own. With registration, you can stop copycats more easily, license the brand to franchisees, and show investors a registered asset. Without trademark registration, you must prove goodwill in a passing-off action, which is slower and harder.
Retailers, restaurants, software houses and manufacturers in Karachi all benefit from trademark registration. The best time to file is before launch; the second-best time is now. We handle trademark registration from search to certificate and renewal.
- Exclusive right to use the mark for registered goods or services.
- Easier enforcement against infringers and counterfeiters.
- An asset that can be licensed, assigned or valued.
- Stronger position with online platforms.
Monitoring the Trade Marks Journal
Owners of established brands should watch the Journal for similar marks filed by others. Acting within the opposition period is much easier than seeking cancellation later. We offer monitoring as part of trademark registration for clients who want it.
Assignment and licensing of marks
A registered mark can be sold (assigned) with or without the goodwill of the business, or licensed to others. Assignments and licences should be in writing and recorded with the Registry, so that the new owner or licensee can rely on them.
Keep evidence of use
Keep dated invoices, packaging, advertisements and website captures showing the mark in use. This evidence helps in opposition, renewal and enforcement.
Who we act for
Startups, retailers, restaurants, manufacturers and service businesses. Consultancy is led by Mohsin Ali Shah, with filings prepared by Mohsin Mirani, Advocate.
Frequently asked questions
Is trademark registration compulsory?
No, but registration gives far stronger and easier-to-enforce rights than unregistered use.
How long is a registration valid?
Ten years, renewable for further ten-year periods.
Can I use the ® symbol after filing?
Only after registration. Before that, "TM" may be used to indicate a claim.
Where is the Trade Marks Registry?
The head office of the Trade Marks Registry is in Karachi, under IPO-Pakistan.
How do I start?
Send the mark and a description of your goods or services on WhatsApp to +92 333 1127830.
Can a trade mark be refused because it is descriptive?
Yes. Descriptive marks face objections on absolute grounds unless they have acquired distinctiveness through use.
Can I oppose someone else's application?
Yes, within the opposition period after it is advertised in the Trade Marks Journal.
Can I register a trade mark in Urdu?
Yes. Marks in Urdu or any script can be registered; a transliteration and translation are usually provided with the application.
What if someone registered my brand first?
Options include opposition (if still pending), rectification or cancellation, or a passing-off claim, depending on use and timing.
Can a trade mark be sold?
Yes. A registered mark can be assigned in writing, and the assignment should be recorded with the Trade Marks Registry.
Speak to Karachi Lawyers about Trademark Registration in Pakistan
Karachi Lawyers has practised since 1985 and has about 17 advocates, including two Advocates Supreme Court. Send a WhatsApp message to +92 333 1127830 with your name, a two-line summary of the matter, any deadline or hearing date, and photos of the key documents. We will tell you what the law requires, which documents are missing and what the next step is, and fix an appointment at our Gulistan-e-Jauhar office (Mezzanine Floor, Muneer Mobile Mall, Block 17) or our DHA office (Mezzanine Floor, Main Jami Commercial, Phase 7). We explain the scope of work before you instruct us, and we never promise an outcome we cannot control.
Related services from Karachi Lawyers
Official sources
For reference only. Procedures and charges change; confirm the current position for your own case.
This page gives general information about the law in Pakistan and is not legal advice for your particular case. No outcome, timeline or fee can be guaranteed before your documents and circumstances have been reviewed.
Reviewed by: Mohsin Ali Shah, Consulting Lawyer (M.A., LL.B.)
Published by: Karachi Lawyers
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