Registering a trademark with the Intellectual Property Department of Hong Kong (IPD) takes about 6–12 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases, such as those involving oppositions, may take up to 18 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 3 months from the publication of the application in the Hong Kong Trademarks Official Journal.
In Hong Kong, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, sound marks, color marks, and certification marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, religious values, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Hong Kong, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $400–600 for one class of goods or services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
Use of the trademark is not mandatory, but non-use for 3 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per the Trademarks Ordinance.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Securing your trademark internationally provides your business with legal safeguards, increased brand credibility, and strategic positioning. Hong Kong, known for its dynamic economy and status as a global financial hub, is an excellent market for international businesses. For companies planning to operate or expand in this region, trademark registration is essential for lawful, stable, and profitable business activities.
Registering a trademark in Hong Kong brings several advantages that go far beyond legal compliance:
Protection Against Copying and Unfair Competition
A registered trademark ensures that your brand, logo, or slogan is legally protected from unauthorized use. In a competitive marketplace, this is your first line of defense against imitators.
Exclusive Rights to Use Your Brand
Trademark registration grants you the exclusive right to use your tm logo trademark on your goods or services in Hong Kong. It prevents others from using a similar mark that might confuse customers.
Increase in Brand and Business Value
A trademark registered logo adds intangible value to your business. It represents brand trust, market presence, and potential for growth, which are especially important for attracting investors or buyers.
Licensing and Franchising Opportunities
A registered trademark allows you to legally license your brand to partners or develop franchising agreements, expanding your business footprint across Hong Kong and beyond.
Legal Advantage in Disputes
With a registration mark, you hold the upper hand in legal disputes related to trademark infringement. It provides a strong basis for enforcing your rights in court.
Registering your trademark in Hong Kong involves several key steps. Understanding these will help you avoid delays or complications:
Trademark Name Search
Before filing, it’s important to conduct a trade mark office search. This checks whether a similar or identical mark already exists. The Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department (IPD) maintains an online database for easy access.
Application Submission
After confirming that your mark is available, you can file your application. This includes your tm trademark logo, applicant details, list of goods/services (based on the Nice Classification), and a declaration of intent to use.
Formal Examination
The IPD will first check if your application complies with formal requirements. If everything is in order, it moves to the next phase.
Substantive Examination
This stage evaluates whether your mark meets legal criteria and does not conflict with existing marks. If any issues are found, you’ll be notified and given a chance to respond.
Publication
If your application passes examination, it will be published in the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal. This gives third parties two months to file an opposition.
Registration
If no oppositions are received, or if they are resolved in your favor, your mark will be registered. You’ll receive a certificate of trademark registration, confirming your rights.
To apply, you will typically need:
A clear representation of the tm logo trademark
Details of the applicant (individual or company)
Description of goods/services
Power of attorney (if filed via agent)
The average time to obtain a registered mark in Hong Kong is 6–9 months, assuming no oppositions or objections. However, this may vary depending on the complexity of the application.
Once your trademark is approved, it’s added to Hong Kong’s official register. This trademark registered logo and associated rights can be publicly viewed and verified. Regular updates to the register ensure transparency and ease of access for trade mark office search purposes.
Registering a trademark may seem straightforward, but potential pitfalls exist:
Incorrect classification of goods/services
Similarity to existing marks
Missed deadlines for responses
Legal language barriers
Delays due to incomplete documentation
These issues can result in refusal or costly reapplication. That’s why professional guidance is strongly recommended.
At ProfitMark, we offer end-to-end support throughout the tm registration process:
Preliminary Checks & Uniqueness Verification
We conduct thorough trademark name search procedures to ensure your mark stands a high chance of approval.
Document Preparation and Submission
Our team handles all technical documentation and files your application correctly with the IPD.
Remote Filing
No need to be physically present in Hong Kong—ProfitMark handles everything on your behalf.
Legal Representation
In the event of objections or opposition, our legal experts will defend your case efficiently.
Fixed Timelines and Transparent Pricing
We provide you with a clear timeline and no hidden fees, making the process stress-free.
Over 13 years of experience in trademark registration worldwide
Successful projects in more than 30 countries
International team of legal and trademark experts
Personalized service for each client
Fully online service—from consultation to certificate delivery
Guaranteed quality and confidentiality
Don’t delay the protection of your brand. Trademark registration in Hong Kong ensures your intellectual property is secure, legally protected, and ready to grow. With ProfitMark, the process of obtaining a registered trademark is efficient, understandable, and 100% reliable.
Get in touch with us today—secure your tm logo trademark and protect the future of your business with confidence!