Last updated for: 1 January 2026

Trademark Registration in Kenya – Quick Overview

Trademark registration in Kenya is the legal process of protecting a brand name, logo, or slogan by registering it with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) under the Trade Marks Act (Cap 506). Once filed, the trademark enjoys provisional protection and, if approved, is registered for 10 years with renewable rights. The process includes a trademark search (TM27), application filing (TM2), examination, publication, and registration.

Trademark Law in Kenya

Trademarks in Kenya are governed by the Trade Marks Act, Cap 506. All applications are examined and registered by KIPI in accordance with international standards, including the Nice Classification of Goods and Services.

Who Should Register a Trademark in Kenya?

  • Startups and new businesses launching a brand
  • Established companies protecting logos and product names
  • Foreign companies entering the Kenyan market
  • Online businesses, apps, and digital brands

Requirements for Trademark Registration in Kenya

Applicant Details

  • Full name (individual or company)
  • Nationality or country of incorporation
  • Postal address and email
  • Company registration certificate (if applicable)

Trademark Details

  • Trademark name or logo
  • Clear visual representation of the mark
  • Class of goods/services under the NICE Classification

Mandatory KIPI Forms

  • TM27 – Trademark similarity search
  • TM2 – Application for registration
  • TM1 – Appointment of agent (foreign applicants)
  • TM32 – Address for service

How to Register a Trademark in Kenya (Official KIPI Process)

  1. Trademark Search (TM27): Identifies conflicting marks before filing.
  2. Preparation of Documents: Applicant info, trademark image & class selection.
  3. Trademark Filing (TM2): Application submitted to KIPI.
  4. Examination: Formal and substantive review by the Registrar.
  5. Publication: Mark advertised for 60 days for opposition.
  6. Opposition Handling: If challenged, hearings and submissions follow.
  7. Registration: Certificate issued if no opposition succeeds.

Cost of Trademark registration in Kenya

The table below shows the official Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) fees for trademark applications. Fees are shown separately for local (KES) and foreign (USD) applicants and are generally charged per class. Always confirm current rates with KIPI before filing.

Process / Application Local Applicants (KES) Foreign Applicants (USD)
1. Similarity Search — TM27 1,000 (first class) / 500 (subsequent classes) 20 (first class) / 10 (subsequent classes)
2. Formal Application — TM2 3,000 (first class) / 1,000 (subsequent classes) 100 (first class) / 50 (subsequent classes)
3. Advertisement 3,000 (first class) / 1,000 (subsequent classes) 100 (first class) / 50 (subsequent classes)
4. Registration 5,000 (first class) / 2,000 (subsequent classes) 150 (first class) / 50 (subsequent classes)
5. Renewal — TM10 5,000 (first class) / 2,000 (subsequent classes) 150 (first class) / 50 (subsequent classes)
6. Change of Name — TM20 2,000 50
7. Change of Address — TM17 2,000 50
8. Assignment — TM14 3,000 75
9. License — TM48 3,000 75
10. Agency — TM1 2,000 50

Notes: Fees are the official KIPI charges and are usually payable per class. Additional costs may include legal/professional fees, document certification, translation, and expedited services. Always confirm the latest fees on the KIPI website or via your agent.

Need help? Biz Brokers Kenya can handle searches, filings and follow-up with KIPI to speed your application and avoid rejections. Contact

How Long Does Trademark Registration Take in Kenya?

On average, trademark registration in Kenya takes 10–16 months. Objections or oppositions can extend the timeline to 24 months.

Full list of classes: Trademark Classes in Kenya

Trusted by startups, brands & entrepreneurs registering trademarks in Kenya

Why clients choose Biz Brokers Kenya for trademark registration

  • Local IP filing experts — tailored Kenya trademark strategy
  • Clear trademark searches (clearance) before filing to reduce refusals
  • End-to-end filing: application, prosecution, and post-registration monitoring
  • KIPI Registered trademark Agents
Pre-filing Clearance Filing & Prosecution TM Watch & Enforcement Local IP Counsel
“They handled our mark search and filing — saved us weeks and avoided a costly objection. Clear timelines and responsive updates.”
— Founder, Nairobi apparel brand
Recent Trademark Success

Outcome: Successful registration within 10 months (including publication period). Scope: Clearance search, class selection, filing & objection response. Applicant: Kenyan SME (class 25 — apparel & accessories).

Quick trust signals to add site-wide: sample registered mark gallery, anonymized client list, and one clear pricing band for basic filing.

Trademark Registration Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners register a trademark in Kenya?

Yes, but foreign applicants must appoint a Kenyan trademark agent using Form TM1.

Is trademark protection immediate?

Yes. Provisional protection starts from the filing date.

How long is a trademark valid?

10 years, renewable indefinitely.

Call to Action. Trademark Agents in Kenya – Why Choose Biz Brokers Kenya

Need help with Trademark registration in Kenya? We are Registered trademark Agents providing consultation to ensure your Trademark is registered quickly and hassle-free

Get started with Biz Brokers Kenya today: +254757884710 | Email: info@bizbrokerskenya.com | Chat on WhatsApp

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