How to File a Trademark Application in Hong Kong (2026 Checklist)
Updated: Oct 3
Filing a Hong Kong trademark application requires a clear representation of the mark, an accurate Nice Classification goods/services description, the applicant's details, and a Hong Kong address for service. Submit online through the e-Trade Mark portal and pay HK$2,000 for the first class (plus HK$1,000 per extra class). Registration takes about 6-9 months.
Key Takeaways
Prepare a clear trademark representation and a precise goods/services description before filing.
Use the e-Trade Mark online portal — the old efiling system was retired on 16 March 2026.
The official filing fee is HK$2,000 for the first class plus HK$1,000 per additional class.
Non-Hong Kong applicants must provide a local address for service.
A pre-filing search is the most effective way to avoid a rejection.
Before You File: Run a Trademark Search in Hong Kong
Before you invest time and money in an application, run a trademark search in Hong Kong to check for conflicting earlier marks. A pre-filing search is the single most effective way to avoid a rejection for similarity. For a step-by-step walkthrough of the IPD’s online search system, read our guide to how to do a trademark search in Hong Kong.
Pre-Filing Checklist (Documents & Preparation)
A clear image of the trademark (word, logo or combination).
The goods/services list, classified by the Nice Classification.
Applicant details: individual name or company registration details.
A Hong Kong address for service, required for overseas applicants.
A preliminary search report confirming no conflicting earlier mark.
Completing Form T2 (Filing Details)
Choosing the Right Class
Select the classes that genuinely cover your goods or services. Over-claiming or under-claiming can delay or weaken your application.
Writing the Goods/Services Description
Use precise, standard terms. Vague descriptions invite objections and lengthen examination.
One Mark, Multiple Classes
A single application can cover multiple classes; each additional class costs HK$1,000 in official fees.
e-Trade Mark Submission (2026 New System)
The IPD retired the legacy efiling system on 16 March 2026 and now handles filings through the e-Trade Mark portal. Electronic registration certificates replaced paper certificates from 1 January 2026.
Common Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them
Identical or similar earlier mark — run a prior search first.
Lack of distinctiveness — avoid purely descriptive or generic terms.
Poor goods/services description — use standard Nice Classification wording.
Fees Breakdown (Official vs Agency)
Application (Form T2): HK$2,000 first class + HK$1,000 per additional class.
Agency fee: search, drafting and filing support, quoted itemised upfront.
FAQ
What documents do I need to file a trademark in Hong Kong?
A clear representation of the mark, a Nice Classification goods/services description, applicant details and a Hong Kong address for service.
Can I file a Hong Kong trademark application online?
Yes, through the e-Trade Mark portal. The older efiling system was retired on 16 March 2026.
How much is the filing fee?
HK$2,000 for the first class plus HK$1,000 for each additional class.
What are the most common reasons for rejection?
Conflict with an earlier mark, lack of distinctiveness and an imprecise goods/services description.
Do I need a Hong Kong address to file?
Yes — non-Hong Kong applicants must provide a local address for service.
How long does Hong Kong trademark registration take?
Hong Kong trademark registration usually takes 6 to 9 months if there are no objections or oppositions — roughly 1 to 2 months for examination, then a 3-month publication period, followed by the certificate of registration.
Ready to File?
Avoid costly mistakes and delays. Get a free preliminary search and expert filing support — call +852 2810 6861 or see our trademark registration services. For the full timeline, read our guide to trademark registration in Hong Kong and Hong Kong trademark law.
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