Trademark Registration in Hong Kong 2026: Steps, Fees & Timeline (6-9 Months)
Updated: Sep 25
Hong Kong trademark registration typically takes 6-9 months from filing to certificate and costs HK$2,000 in official fees for the first class (plus HK$1,000 for each additional class). The six steps are: preliminary search, filing Form T2, examination by the Intellectual Property Department (IPD), publication with a 3-month opposition period, registration, and renewal every 10 years. Running a pre-filing search is the single most effective way to avoid rejection.
Key Takeaways
Hong Kong trademark registration takes 6-9 months when no objections are raised.
Official IPD fees: HK$2,000 for the first class, plus HK$1,000 for each additional class.
A registered trademark lasts 10 years and is renewable indefinitely.
Use TM for unregistered marks and R only after official registration.
A professional pre-filing search materially lowers rejection and opposition risk.
Applications are filed online through the e-Trade Mark portal (the legacy efiling system retired on 16 March 2026).
The 6-Step Registration Process and Timeline
Step 1: Preliminary Search and Assessment (1-2 weeks)
Before filing, search the IPD register for identical or similar earlier marks. This avoids most rejections and wasted fees.
Step 2: Prepare and File Form T2 (2-4 weeks)
File a clear representation of the mark with a goods/services description based on the Nice Classification, online through the e-Trade Mark portal.
Step 3: Examination by the IPD (1-4 months)
The IPD examines formalities, distinctiveness and conflicts with earlier marks. Any deficiencies can be corrected within the stated deadline.
Step 4: Publication and Opposition Period (3 months)
Approved applications are published in the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal. Third parties have 3 months to oppose.
Step 5: Registration Certificate (issued around 6-9 months)
If no opposition succeeds, the mark is registered and an electronic certificate is issued (paper certificates were replaced from 1 January 2026).
Step 6: Maintenance and Renewal (every 10 years)
A registration lasts 10 years and must be renewed before expiry to keep rights alive.
Official Fees vs Agency Fees (Transparency)
Official IPD Fees (2026)
Application (Form T2): HK$2,000 first class, plus HK$1,000 per additional class.
Preliminary advice on registrability (Form T1): HK$400 per class.
Notice of opposition (Form T6): HK$800.
Renewal fees follow the IPD's current published schedule.
Agency Service Fees
Preliminary search and clearance report.
Drafting an accurate goods/services description.
Monitoring publication and the opposition window.
Renewal reminders and portfolio management.
Reputable agencies quote a clear, itemised fee upfront - beware of hidden mark-ups.
Nice Classification (Edition 13) Industry Cheat Sheet
Class 9 - Electronics, software, mobile apps.
Class 25 - Clothing, footwear, headwear.
Class 35 - Advertising, retail, e-commerce, business management.
Class 41 - Education, training, entertainment.
Class 42 - Technology, software development, SaaS.
Class 44 - Beauty, medical and healthcare services.
Class 45 - Legal services, including IP agency services.
What If Your Trademark Is Rejected or Opposed?
A rejection usually stems from similarity to an earlier mark or lack of distinctiveness. You can respond with arguments and evidence within the deadline. If opposed, you have 3 months to file a counter-statement and either negotiate or defend the application.
R vs TM - When to Use Each Symbol
Use TM to signal that you treat a sign as your trademark, even before registration. Use R only once your mark is officially registered in Hong Kong. Misusing R can mislead the public and weaken your position.
FAQ
How long does Hong Kong trademark registration take?
About 6-9 months from filing to registration, assuming no objections or oppositions.
How much does it cost to register a trademark in Hong Kong?
The official fee is HK$2,000 for the first class plus HK$1,000 for each additional class. Agency service fees are additional.
Can I register a trademark myself without an agent?
Yes, but self-filing carries a higher risk of rejection from description errors or similarity conflicts. A prior search materially lowers that risk.
What is the difference between TM and R?
TM indicates an unregistered or common-law mark; R may only be used once the trademark is officially registered.
What happens if someone opposes my application?
A third party has a 3-month window to oppose. You can respond with a counter-statement and evidence, or negotiate a resolution.
Free Trademark Search and Success Assessment
Protect your brand the right way. Get a free preliminary search and a realistic success assessment before you file - call +852 2810 6861 or explore our trademark registration services. See also our guides to trademark registration in Hong Kong and how to file a trademark application.
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