Trademark registration in Bangladesh does not apply—Nepal’s Department of Industry (DoI) handles trademark filings under the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965. The process takes 12–14 months, follows a first-to-file rule, and requires a separate application for each NICE class.
Key Takeaways
- Nepal’s trademark registration is handled by the Department of Industry (DoI) under the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965.
- The process follows a first-to-file rule—rights go to the first valid applicant, not the first user.
- Registration takes 12–14 months typically; 6–8 months is the best-case scenario.
- Each application covers one NICE class—a brand spanning multiple classes needs multiple filings.
- A 90-day opposition window follows publication in the Industrial Property Bulletin.
- Trademarks are valid for 7 years and renewable indefinitely in 7-year terms.
- Foreign applicants must file through a Nepal-based agent with a Power of Attorney.
What is trademark registration in Nepal?
Trademark registration in Nepal is the legal process of securing exclusive rights to a brand name, logo, or slogan under the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965. The Department of Industry (DoI) examines, publishes, and registers marks, granting protection for 7 years per term. Nepal follows a first-to-file system—rights go to the first valid applicant, not the first user.
Why register a trademark in Nepal?
Registering a trademark in Nepal protects your brand from copying and legal disputes. A registered mark gives you the exclusive right to use it nationwide, prevents others from registering similar marks, and lets you take legal action against infringers. Without registration, you risk losing your brand identity and facing costly legal battles under the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965.
Who can file a trademark in Nepal?
Any individual, company, or foreign entity can file a trademark in Nepal, but foreign applicants must use a Nepal-based agent with a Power of Attorney. The Department of Industry (DoI) accepts applications from both Nepali and foreign businesses, provided they meet the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965 requirements. A separate application is needed for each NICE class.
Which NICE classes apply for trademark registration in Nepal?
Nepal uses the NICE Classification, with 45 classes—Classes 1–34 for goods and 35–45 for services. Each trademark application covers one class only. The Department of Industry (DoI) requires a separate filing and fee for each class. For example, a clothing brand files in Class 25, while a restaurant files in Class 43.
How to register a trademark in Nepal: step-by-step
Registering a trademark in Nepal involves five key steps with the Department of Industry (DoI). You start by filing an application, then the DoI examines it, publishes it in the Industrial Property Bulletin, allows a 90-day opposition window, and finally issues a registration certificate if unopposed. Here’s how it works:
- File the application – Submit the required documents and fee to the DoI. You’ll need a completed application form, a Power of Attorney (notarised and attested by two witnesses), and four specimens of the mark.
- DoI examination – The DoI checks for conflicts with existing marks and compliance with the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965. If there’s an objection, you’ll have a chance to respond.
- Publication in the Bulletin – If approved, your mark is published in the Industrial Property Bulletin for public notice.
- 90-day opposition period – Anyone can file an opposition within 90 days. If opposed, the DoI holds a hearing; if unopposed, the process moves forward.
- Registration and certificate – Pay the registration fee and receive your certificate. The trademark is now valid for 7 years and renewable.
What documents are needed for trademark registration in Nepal?
To register a trademark in Nepal, you need a completed application form, a notarised Power of Attorney (signed, sealed, and attested by two witnesses), and four specimens of the mark. Domestic applicants also provide a board resolution, industry certificate, and tax clearance letter. Foreign applicants must include a home registration certificate (notarised and in English).
How long does trademark registration take in Nepal?
Trademark registration in Nepal typically takes 12–14 months from filing to certificate. The Department of Industry (DoI) examines the application, publishes it in the Industrial Property Bulletin, and allows a 90-day opposition window. In the smoothest cases, the process can finish in 6–8 months, but delays are common due to backlogs or objections.
What are the cost factors for trademark registration in Nepal?
The cost of trademark registration in Nepal depends on the number of NICE classes you file under. Each class requires a separate application and fee, which includes both government fees and professional service fees if you use an agent. Foreign applicants pay higher fees and must file through a Nepal-based representative. For an exact estimate, use our fee calculator or contact our team.
What is the legal basis for trademark registration in Nepal?
Trademark registration in Nepal is governed by the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965 and its amendments. The Department of Industry (DoI) administers the process under this law, which defines what can be registered, the examination process, and enforcement rights. Nepal also follows the Paris Convention and TRIPS Agreement, ensuring international standards for trademark protection.
What are common mistakes to avoid when registering a trademark in Nepal?
A common mistake is filing in the wrong NICE class, which can lead to rejection or weak protection. Another is not conducting a trademark search first—this risks conflicts with existing marks. Some applicants also miss the 90-day opposition window or fail to renew on time, losing their rights. Always double-check your application and documents before submitting to the Department of Industry (DoI).
Can you give a realistic example of trademark registration in Nepal?
Imagine a Kathmandu-based café called "Himalayan Brews" that wants to protect its name and logo. The owner files a trademark application in NICE Class 43 (restaurant services) with the Department of Industry (DoI). After examination and publication in the Industrial Property Bulletin, no one opposes it. The DoI issues a registration certificate, giving "Himalayan Brews" exclusive rights to its brand for 7 years, renewable indefinitely.
What are the alternatives if my trademark is already registered in Nepal?
If your desired trademark is already registered in Nepal, you can consider modifying your mark, filing in a different NICE class, or challenging the existing registration if it’s not in use. The Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965 allows cancellation if a mark hasn’t been used for 1 year after registration. Alternatively, you can negotiate with the owner for a license or assignment. Our team can help you explore these options—contact us for advice.
In short
- Trademark registration in Nepal is handled by the Department of Industry (DoI) under the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 1965.
- The process takes 12–14 months typically, with a 90-day opposition window after publication.
- Each application covers one NICE class—multiple classes require multiple filings.
- Foreign applicants must file through a Nepal-based agent with a Power of Attorney.
- Trademarks are valid for 7 years and renewable indefinitely in 7-year terms.
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Ready to protect your brand? Start with a trademark search to check for conflicts, or contact our team for help with filing. Use our NICE class finder to pick the right class for your business.
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