Trademark registration Agents in Kenya

Why Register a Trademark in Kenya?

• Provides direct evidence of exclusive ownership of your brand in Kenya. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Helps prevent others from registering a confusingly similar mark. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Enhances brand value, licensability and market trust.

Requirements for Trademark Registration in Kenya

To successfully register a trademark in Kenya, you must provide the following documents and information to the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI).

Essential Applicant Information

• Full applicant details: Complete names of the individual, partnership or company applying.
• Contact information: Postal address, email, phone number and physical address.
• Nationality or country of incorporation: This affects registration fees and requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Business registration certificate: Copy of the certificate of incorporation or business registration (for company applicants).

Trademark Specifications

• Proposed trademark name: Used for preliminary search and approval.
• Representation of the mark: A clear image/design of the trademark — wordmark, logo or combination — submitted in both soft and hard copies. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Distinctive elements: The mark must include at least one of the following:
  • A special representation of a name or signature;
  • An invented or unique word;
  • A distinctive logo, device or symbol capable of identifying your goods or services. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Class(es) of goods or services: You must specify which class(es) under the Nice Classification system the mark applies to. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Required KIPI Application Forms

• Form TM 27: Preliminary search form (highly recommended before filing). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Form TM 2: Main application for registration of a trademark. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Form TM 1: Appointment of agent (mandatory for foreign applicants). :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Form TM 32: Entry/change of address for service in Kenya. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Source: Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI)

How to Register a Trademark in Kenya – Process Overview

The registration process with KIPI involves several key stages — from filing to certificate issuance. Being aware of each stage helps you plan and avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preliminary Search (optional but recommended): Conduct a name/trademark search to check for prior conflicting marks. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
2. Prepare & File Application: Submit Form TM 2 (and TM 1/TM 32 if applicable) with representations and required information. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
3. Examination by KIPI: KIPI conducts formality and substantive checks for distinctiveness, classification and compliance. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
4. Publication in the Industrial Property Journal: If passed examination, the mark is published for opposition (60 days). :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
5. Registration & Certificate Issuance: If no opposition (or resolved favorably), the mark is registered and certificate issued (valid for 10 years). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Trademark Registration Timeline in Kenya (10–16 Months)

Cost of Trademark Registration in Kenya (KIPI Fees 2025)

Official fee schedules vary by applicant type (local or foreign) and number of classes. Below is a sample breakdown (always check the current schedule on the KIPI website before filing).

Note: These fees apply per class of goods or services. Additional legal or professional fees may apply and rates change — always verify the current schedule on the KIPI site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is a trademark registration valid in Kenya?

Once the certificate is issued by KIPI, a trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of registration—and it may be renewed indefinitely for further 10-year periods. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Can I register a trademark in Kenya if I’m non-resident?

Yes — non-residents must appoint a local Kenyan agent and file through the agent using Form TM 1. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

Do I get protection during the application period?

Yes — filing creates provisional protection from the date of filing, preventing identical or confusingly similar marks from being registered afterwards. See “Provisional Protection” above.

What types of marks can I register?

You can register ordinary marks, certification marks, defensive marks or collective marks — provided they meet the criteria under the Trade Marks Act and are registrable in Kenya. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}