In India, trademark registration is an essential step for protecting brand identity, especially for those in specific industries like musical instruments, which fall under Trademark Class 15. This class includes musical instruments and related accessories, and registering your brand under this class ensures exclusive rights to use your trademark in that category. However, before diving into the process, understanding the complete cost breakdown of trademark registration under Class 15 is crucial.
This blog provides a comprehensive guide to the costs associated with registering a trademark under Class 15 in India, including government fees, professional charges, optional services, and hidden costs you should be aware of.
What Is Trademark Class 15?
Trademark Class 15 covers:
- Musical instruments (e.g., guitars, pianos, violins)
- Electronic musical instruments
- Music boxes
- Conductors’ batons
- Accessories directly used with instruments
If your business deals with manufacturing, selling, or branding musical instruments, your products fall under this class.
Why Register a Trademark in Class 15?
- Exclusive Rights: Legal ownership of the brand name/logo under Class 15.
- Brand Protection: Prevents unauthorized use by others in the musical instruments industry.
- National Recognition: Adds credibility to your business.
- Online & Offline Protection: Important for e-commerce businesses.
Cost Components of Trademark Registration in India
Let’s break down the full cost of registering a trademark under Class 15 in India.
1. Government Fees
The government fee is a standard charge and depends on the type of applicant:
| Applicant Type | Government Fee (Per Class Per Application) |
| Individual / Startup / MSME | INR 4,500 |
| Company / Partnership / Other Entities | INR 9,000 |
Note: MSMEs and Startups must submit a valid certificate to claim the reduced fee.
2. Professional Fees
Most people prefer hiring trademark consultants or lawyers for error-free filing. Professional fees vary based on the experience and services offered.
| Type of Service | Fee Range (Approximate) |
| Basic Filing Support | INR 1,000 – INR 2,500 |
| End-to-End Registration Support | INR 3,000 – INR 6,000 |
| Premium Services (Including Search, Monitoring, etc.) | INR 7,000 – INR 15,000 |
Hiring professionals ensures that:
- The application is properly drafted
- Class is correctly selected
- Objection chances are minimized
3. Trademark Search (Optional But Recommended)
Before applying, it’s advisable to conduct a preliminary trademark search.
- Manual or Public Search: Free (You can do it via IP India website)
- Professional Search: INR 500 – INR 2,000
A professional search helps avoid applying for already-registered or conflicting trademarks.
4. Trademark Watch Services (Optional)
After registration, keeping an eye on similar trademark filings is important to safeguard your brand.
| Service | Cost (Per Year) |
| Trademark Monitoring Services | INR 2,000 – INR 5,000 |
5. Objection or Opposition Handling (If Required)
Sometimes, your application might receive an objection or opposition from the trademark registry or third parties.
| Legal Stage | Approximate Cost |
| Filing a Reply to Objection | INR 2,000 – INR 5,000 |
| Attending Hearings | INR 5,000 – INR 10,000 |
| Opposition Proceedings | INR 10,000 – INR 25,000 |
These costs apply only if an issue arises, so budget accordingly.
6. Trademark Renewal (After 10 Years)
Once registered, a trademark is valid for 10 years. To maintain protection, you’ll need to renew it.
| Renewal Stage | Government Fee | Professional Fee (Approx.) |
| Renewal (Before Expiry) | INR 9,000 | INR 2,000 – INR 5,000 |
| Renewal (With Surcharge) | INR 9,000 + INR 4,500 (Surcharge) | Additional professional fee applies |
Estimated Total Cost for Trademark Class 15 (Without Objections)
| Cost Element | MSME/Startup | Company/Other Entities |
| Government Fee | INR 4,500 | INR 9,000 |
| Professional Fee (Average) | INR 3,500 | INR 3,500 |
| Optional: Trademark Search | INR 1,000 | INR 1,000 |
| Estimated Total | INR 9,000 | INR 13,500 |
Tip: Always verify professional charges and ask for transparent quotes.
Cost-Saving Tips for Trademark Applicants
- Register as MSME/Startup: Avail lower government fees by getting certified.
- Do It Yourself (DIY): If confident, you can apply through the IP India website.
- Bundle Services: Many consultants offer packages (search + filing + monitoring).
- Early Filing: Avoid increased costs from objections or re-filings.
Where to Apply for Trademark Class 15 in India?
You can apply:
- Online via the IP India Portal: https://ipindia.gov.in
- Through a Trademark Consultant: For expert handling
- Physically at Trademark Registry Offices: Not common nowadays but still an option
Conclusion
Registering a trademark under Class 15 in India is not just a legal formality—it’s a strategic investment for any business in the musical instrument industry. By protecting your brand, you ensure long-term growth, consumer trust, and market exclusivity.
While the costs may vary based on the type of applicant and services chosen, this blog gives you a transparent breakdown of what to expect. Budgeting wisely and taking expert help where necessary can make the process smooth and cost-effective.
Need Help Registering Your Trademark in Class 15?
At VMK Professionals, we offer complete support for:
- Trademark search and analysis
- End-to-end filing for Class 15
- Objection handling and hearing representation
- Trademark monitoring and renewal
Contact us today for a free consultation and protect your brand the right way.