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What are the costs to register a trademark?

Introduction

Registering a trademark in Kenya is a crucial step for businesses and individuals seeking to protect their brand identity. The process involves several steps and associated costs, which vary depending on the specifics of the application. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the costs involved in registering a trademark in Kenya.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of Trademark Registration in Kenya

  2. Detailed Costs of Trademark Registration

    1. Application Fees

    2. Publication Fees

    3. Examination Fees

    4. Renewal Fees

  3. Additional Costs

    1. Legal Fees

    2. Certification Fees

  4. Conclusion

1. Overview of Trademark Registration in Kenya

Trademark registration in Kenya is governed by the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) under the Trademarks Act, Cap 506. The process ensures that a trademark is legally recognized and protected from unauthorized use. The registration process involves several stages, each with its associated costs.

2. Detailed Costs of Trademark Registration

2.1 Application Fees

The initial step in registering a trademark involves filing an application. The application fee for a single class of products or services is typically around KES 4,000. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and is payable to KIPI.

  • Source: Biz Brokers Kenya ↗

2.2 Publication Fees

Once the application is filed, the trademark must be published in the Kenya Industrial Property Journal. This publication allows for any objections to be raised. The publication fee is approximately KES 3,000 and is due 18 months after the filing date.

2.3 Examination Fees

The examination fee is another critical cost in the trademark registration process. This fee covers the cost of examining the trademark to ensure it meets all legal requirements. The examination fee is around KES 5,000.

2.4 Renewal Fees

Trademarks in Kenya are valid for ten years from the date of registration. To maintain the trademark, it must be renewed every ten years. The renewal fee ranges between KES 20,000 and KES 100,000, depending on the specifics of the trademark and the number of classes it covers.

3. Additional Costs

3.1 Legal Fees

While it is possible to register a trademark without legal assistance, many applicants choose to hire a lawyer to navigate the process. Legal fees can vary widely but typically range from KES 20,000 to KES 50,000, depending on the complexity of the application and the lawyer's experience.

3.2 Certification Fees

Once the trademark is registered, a certification fee may be required to obtain the official certificate of registration. This fee is generally around KES 1,000.

Conclusion

Registering a trademark in Kenya involves several steps and associated costs, including application, publication, examination, and renewal fees. Additionally, applicants may incur legal and certification fees. Understanding these costs is essential for budgeting and ensuring the successful registration and protection of your trademark.

Sources

Answered by mwakili.com