International trademark registration from India (Madrid Protocol)
One application, one set of forms and one renewal can cover many countries. Here is how the Madrid System works for Indian brand owners.
Quick answer
The Madrid System lets you file one international application through the Indian Trademark Registry and choose the countries where you want protection. You first need an Indian trademark application or registration (the basic mark). India joined Madrid in 2013.
How Madrid works
You apply on Form MM2(E) to the Indian Registry, which acts as the office of origin. It certifies the application and sends it to the WIPO International Bureau, within two months under the rules. WIPO examines formalities, records the mark and sends it to each country you named. Each country then decides under its own law whether to protect it.
Last checked: 12 November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change, so confirm on the official site before you file.
Who can use it
- You need an Indian trademark application or registration for the same mark. This is the basic mark.
- You must be an Indian national, domiciled in India or have a real and effective establishment here.
- The goods and services in the international application cannot be wider than in the basic mark.
- Applications are in English, French or Spanish. Check the current language options when you file.
Central attack: the main risk
For the first five years the international registration depends on the basic mark. If the Indian mark is refused, cancelled or withdrawn in that period, the international registration can fall in the same way, in whole or in part. After five years it becomes independent. This is why a clean, registered Indian mark matters before you go abroad. See trademark registration in India and run a search first.
What happens in each country
Each designated country can refuse protection within its own time limit, usually 12 or 18 months. A refusal in one country does not affect the others. You may need a local attorney in that country to answer an objection. Cost and speed vary by country.
Costs and timing
Costs have three parts: an Indian handling fee, WIPO fees and country fees. See Madrid fees for Indian applicants. The steps are laid out in the Madrid filing process.
Frequently asked questions
Can I file Madrid without an Indian trademark?
No. You need an Indian application or registration as the basic mark.
How many countries are in Madrid?
More than 130 countries are members through the Madrid System. Check the WIPO member list before choosing, because membership changes.
Does Madrid give me a worldwide trademark?
No. You get protection only in the countries you designate, and each can refuse.
Do I still need a local lawyer abroad?
Often yes, if a country raises an objection that must be answered under its local law.
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Written by: Trademark Wale editorial team, with over 40 years of experience in trademark and IP work, serving 7000+ brands. Last updated: 12 November 2026.
Sources: WIPO Madrid System, IP India. Confirm current fees with the WIPO fee calculator.
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