Trademark in Bangladesh: Search, Registration, Renewal and Transfer

A search checks DPDT records for identical or similar marks already pending or registered. It is not mandatory, but it helps avoid objections. An informal check takes about 2 days; the formal search report takes 20 to 30 working days. The total cost is USD 100 to 150.

The search is by the mark itself (word, logo or combined). The report lists similar marks with status, applicant, filing date, class and goods, and gives no legal opinion on registrability.

File on Form TM-1; pay the publication fee on Form TM-9 within a month of acceptance; the mark is published for a 2-month opposition period; then pay the registration fee and receive the certificate. Foreign applicants must use a local agent. Total cost is typically USD 750 to 850, and the time is 12 to 24 months. Registration is valid for 7 years from the filing or priority date, then renews for 10-year periods.

Full detail: how to register a trademark in Bangladesh.

Renewal is filed on Form TM-12, with the registration number, class details and a simple signed POA. Start about 6 months before expiry. Late renewal uses Form TM-17 within the 6-month grace period; after that the mark can be restored only within 1 year. Total cost is typically USD 450 to 550. See renewal.

Assignment permanently transfers ownership. A deed is signed and apostilled or legalised, filed with the DPDT, published for a 2-month opposition period, then confirmed by certificate. It takes 8 to 24 months and typically costs USD 500. An unregistered mark can be assigned only with goodwill, and an unrecorded assignment is not effective against third parties. See assignment.

Recordal updates the owner's name or address without changing ownership (Form TM-16 or TM-33). Approval takes 3 to 12 months and typically costs USD 200. Each registration needs its own application, though one affidavit can cover several registration numbers. File at once: outdated details cause missed notices and weaker enforcement. See name and address change.

Before registration you can correct applicant details, change agent, adjust goods within the original class and fix clerical errors. After registration only clerical errors, owner details and narrowing of goods can change; the mark itself and its class cannot. Processing is 2 to 6 months, typically USD 200. See amendment guide.