How to Register a Trademark in Kenya
Biz Brokers Kenya offers fast, reliable, and affordable trademark registration services in Kenya. We handle everything from trademark search to the final registration of your brand name, logo, or creative work.
A registered trademark in Kenya protects you against intellectual property infringement and unauthorized use of your brand by third parties. Trademarks are often referred to as brand names in Kenya.
What is a Trademark in Kenya?
Under the Kenya Trade Marks Act, a trademark can include names, drawings, pictures, monograms, symbols, or any combination of these. Once registered, a trademark grants the owner exclusive rights over its use in Kenya.
Requirements for Trademark Registration in Kenya
- Proposed trademark name (for name search and approval).
- Representation of the proposed logo/artwork (soft and hard copy).
- Full names of the applicant (individual or business).
- Contact details (postal, email, phone, and physical address).
- Nationality of the applicant (affects registration costs).
- Copy of company/business registration certificate (if applicable).
Procedure for Trademark Registration in Kenya
Trademark Name Search
A preliminary search is conducted via Form TM27 to confirm if your trademark is registrable and not similar to existing ones.
Trademark Application (Form TM2)
Once approved, the application is made with seven (7) representations of the trademark. If submitted by an agent, Form TM1 (appointment of agent) and Form TM32 (address of service) are required.
Examination of Trademark
- Formality Examination – Checking the correctness of submitted documents.
- Registrar Search – Ensures no identical or confusingly similar trademarks exist.
- Substantive Examination – Evaluates distinctiveness and uniqueness of the mark.
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The trademark is published for 60 days to allow for opposition by third parties.
Trademark Registration
If no opposition is filed, the trademark is officially registered. Protection begins from the application date.
Costs of Trademark Registration in Kenya (2025)
The cost of registering a trademark in Kenya depends on whether the application is local or international and the number of classes. Approximate fees per class include:
- Name Search: KES 3,000 / USD 150
- Application Fee: KES 4,000 / USD 200
- Registration Fee: KES 4,000 / USD 150
- Advertisement Fee: KES 3,000 / USD 60
- Appointment of Agent: KES 1,000 / USD 50
- Consultation Fee: Depends on complexity
Note: Fees apply per class. For multiple classes, additional costs apply. For a tailored quotation, contact us.
Validity and Renewal of Trademarks in Kenya
A trademark in Kenya is valid for 10 years from the date of registration. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by paying the renewal fee.
Who Can Register a Trademark in Kenya?
Any of the following can register a trademark in Kenya:
- Individuals
- Companies
- Partnerships & Cooperatives
- Societies & Associations
Types & Classes of Trademarks in Kenya
Trademarks are categorized under the International NICE Classification (45 classes), covering goods and services.
- Trade Marks: Identify goods produced by a business.
- Service Marks: Identify services offered by a provider.
- Collective Marks: Used by associations or groups.
- Certification Marks: Show compliance with standards.
- Well-Known Marks: Globally recognized and protected.
See full details here: Trademark Classes in Kenya
Benefits of Trademark Registration in Kenya
- Exclusive Rights: Full ownership and control over your brand name, logo, or product identity.
- Legal Protection: Ability to take legal action against infringers.
- Competitive Advantage: Builds brand recognition and consumer trust.
- Asset Value: A registered trademark can be licensed, franchised, or sold.
Excluded Marks – What Cannot Be Registered
The following cannot be registered as trademarks in Kenya:
- Marks likely to deceive or cause confusion.
- Marks identical to existing registered trademarks.
- Scent, taste, touch, or sound marks.
- Words like "patented," "copyright," or "registered design."
- National/state emblems, insignia, or flags without consent.
- Symbols such as the Olympic symbol or the Red Cross.