Renewing your trademark in Bangladesh is essential for maintaining exclusive rights over your brand identity. The Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT) oversees the renewal process under the Trademarks Act, 2009, and the Trademark Rules, 2015. This article explains everything you need to know about renewal, from requirements and documents to costs, timelines, and restoration.
◻️General Renewal Requirements
What is the validity period of a registered trademark in Bangladesh?
A registered trademark in Bangladesh is valid for seven (7) years from the date of filing or the priority date. This initial protection ensures that the owner has exclusive rights over the mark during this time.
After the first term, trademarks can be renewed for ten (10) years at a time. There is no limit to the number of renewals, which means trademark protection can last indefinitely, provided the owner continues to meet the renewal requirements.
📅 When should a trademark renewal application be filed?
The renewal application should be filed before the expiry date of the registration term. It is advisable to begin the renewal process at least six months before the deadline. Early preparation helps avoid unnecessary delays, especially since processing times may vary depending on the workload of the DPDT.
What happens if the renewal deadline is missed?
If the renewal deadline is missed, the trademark lapses and the exclusive rights are lost. This means the owner can no longer enforce the trademark against infringers or prevent others from using a similar mark.
However, this does not always mean the end of protection. The law provides additional opportunities to renew within a grace period (six-month) or apply for restoration, though these options come with extra costs and risks.
Is there a grace period available for late renewal filings?
Yes. The DPDT allows a six-month grace period after the expiry of the trademark’s validity. During this time, the owner can still renew the mark by paying the standard renewal fee along with a late fee.
🕒 If you missed the grace period, what are your options?
If both the renewal deadline and the six-month grace period are missed, the trademark is removed from the register. In that case, the owner may apply for restoration with the DPDT within one year.
However, in practice, if the DPDT delays removing the mark from the register due to workload, they often still allow late renewals on payment of a fine. This is a common practice, but it is not supported by any specific legal provision.
⏳Before registration, is it possible to pay the renewal fee?
No. Trademark renewal is only possible after registration is granted and the certificate has been issued. Renewal fees cannot be paid while an application is still pending examination or publication.
⭐ What if the renewal date passes before you get the certificate?
In some cases, the DPDT issues a registration certificate after the renewal date has already passed. This can create confusion for trademark owners who worry about losing their rights.
To address this, the DPDT has a common practice that the owner has a one-month grace period from the date of receiving the certificate to pay the renewal fee without penalty. This ensures fairness and avoids penalizing applicants for delays caused by the IP Office.
What if the registration certificate is issued after the renewal deadline?
In some cases, the DPDT issues a registration certificate after the renewal date has already passed. This can create confusion for trademark owners who worry about losing their rights.
To address this, the DPDT has a common practice that the owner has a one-month grace period from the date of receiving the certificate to pay the renewal fee without penalty. This ensures fairness and avoids penalizing applicants for delays caused by the IP Office.
Can a trademark be renewed indefinitely in Bangladesh?
Yes. Trademarks in Bangladesh can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year cycles. As long as the owner continues to pay renewal fees on time, there is no limit to how long the protection can last.
What does “TM to check for expiration” mean?
The status "TM To Check for Expiration" means that the renewal due date has already passed, and the trademark owner did not renew it on time, even after the 6-month grace period. However, the trademark is not yet marked as invalid or abandoned by the DPDT.
In practice, the trademark is still considered active, and the owner can usually pay the renewal fee with a late fee to keep the mark valid. This is a common administrative practice followed by the DPDT, but there is no specific law or rule that guarantees this option.
If someone challenges this practice in the High Court, the court will decide whether such late renewals are legally valid. Until then, the DPDT continues to allow them based on its internal procedures. So, trademark owners are advised to act quickly and, if possible, file a new application as a safeguard to avoid legal uncertainty.
Can a trademark be restored after expiration due to non-renewal?
Yes. Trademarks that have been removed due to non-renewal may be restored. The applicant must file a restoration request along with an explanation of why the renewal was not filed in time within one year.
Restoration is subject to the Controller’s approval, and additional fees must be paid. If restoration is granted, the mark is reinstated in the register and protection continues as if uninterrupted.
Why trademark renewal in Bangladesh is crucial?
Trademark renewal is not a mere formality — it is vital for preserving exclusive rights. Without renewal, businesses risk losing their brand identity, allowing competitors to register or misuse their marks.
Timely renewal also strengthens legal protection, ensuring that the owner can enforce the trademark against infringement. In commercial terms, it helps maintain goodwill, reputation, and brand value.
◻️Documents & Formalities
What documents are required to file a renewal application?
To renew a trademark in Bangladesh, the following are required:
- TM-12/TM-17 renewal form
- Registration details of the trademark
- Proof of fee payment
- Power of Attorney (Simple and Scanned Copy)
These documents must be filed with the DPDT either physically or online. Ensuring accuracy in the details helps avoid delays or objections.
Is a Power of Attorney (PoA) required for trademark renewal?
Yes. If the renewal is filed through an attorney or agent, a simple signed PoA is mandatory. However, original, notarization, or legalization is not required for renewal purposes.
Do we need the original registration certificate for renewal?
The original registration certificate is generally not required at the time of renewal. However, the DPDT may request it in special cases, such as discrepancies or disputes regarding ownership.
◻️Costs & Fees
What are the official fees for trademark renewal in Bangladesh?
The official fee is BDT 20000 + 15% VAT (approx. USD 255) per class. This amount is payable to the DPDT when submitting the renewal application. In Case of a late penalty, the amount is BDT 5000 + 15% VAT (approx. USD 63) per class
Owners should also account for professional service charges if they engage a law firm to handle the filing.
Are there additional professional fees or VAT applicable?
Yes. Professional fees are charged by law firms to manage the process. These fees vary depending on the complexity of the case and the number of classes involved.
In addition, a 15% VAT applies on legal services under Bangladeshi tax law. Clients should factor in both official and professional fees when budgeting for renewal.
Is there an extra fee for late renewal applications?
Yes. If the renewal is filed within the six-month grace period, an additional BDT 53000 (approx. USD 63) per class is charged.
◻️Procedure & Timeline
How long does it take for the DPDT to process a renewal?
The DPDT usually takes 3 to 6 months to process a renewal application, depending on workload and backlog. Some cases may be quicker if filed online.
During this time, the office verifies the details and then issues the Renewal Certificate, extending protection for another 10 years.
Will a new Certificate of Renewal be issued after renewal?
Yes. The DPDT issues a Certificate of Renewal (Paper) as proof that the trademark’s validity has been extended. This document is essential for enforcement in court or in opposition matters.
The certificate serves as official confirmation that the mark is active and legally protected.
Can renewal be done online under the new DPDT system?
Yes. Since 2025, the DPDT has introduced an online filing system under WIPO’s IPAS platform. This allows trademark renewals to be submitted electronically.
◻️Final Thoughts
Trademark renewal in Bangladesh is simple but must be handled carefully. Missing deadlines can result in extra costs, loss of rights, or lengthy restoration procedures. By preparing early, submitting the right documents, and paying fees on time, businesses can ensure their brands remain protected indefinitely.
📊Trademark Renewal in Bangladesh – Quick Summary
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Validity | 7 years from filing/priority date (initial term), then renewable every 10 years. |
| Renewal Filing | Must be filed before expiry; recommended 6 months in advance. |
| Grace Period | 6 months after expiry with late fee; restoration possible if grace is missed. |
| Special Case | If certificate issued after renewal deadline → 1 month from receipt to renew without penalty. |
| Documents | TM-12 form, registration details, fee proof, Power of Attorney (simple signed). |
| Fees | BDT 20000+15%VAT (≈ USD 255) per class; late fee BDT 50000+15%VAT (≈ USD 63) per class. |
| Other Costs | Professional fees + 15% VAT (varies by firm). |
| Timeline | 3–6 months for DPDT to issue Renewal Certificate. |
| Certificate | Renewal Certificate confirms validity for next 10 years. |
| Online Filing | Possible under DPDT’s WIPO IPAS-based system since 2024. |
| Importance | Renewal ensures continuous protection, prevents loss of rights, and preserves brand value. |
