Why register your trademark in Kenya?
Registration grants exclusive rights to use the mark nationwide, creates a licensable asset, improves enforceability against counterfeiters, and is prima-facie evidence of ownership. For cross-border protection use the Madrid Protocol or file in target jurisdictions. (Authoritative regulator: KIPI.)
Authority: Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) — trade marks, publications, fees & Online filing.
How to register a Trademark in Kenya - step-by-step procedure
The following is a details process of trademark registration in Kenya
1. Trademark search (before you file) (TM27)
Do a KIPI database search and a market/Google search. Use TM27 or KIPI’s search portal for an official search. If identical or confusingly similar marks exist, revise the mark or the specification of goods/services. We recommend a clearance search across the common classes you intend to use.
Actionable: Run a KIPI search + EU/US/WIPO where applicable. Save screenshots of search results for your file.
See KIPI's search tools and list of Nice classes for class selection.
2. Prepare & file the application (TM2)
Required items — typical application package:
- Completed TM2 (application form).
- If filing through an agent: TM1 (appointment of agent) or power of attorney for foreign applicants.
- TM27 (search request) — where applicable.
- Seven (7) clear reproductions of the mark (logos) for the dossier.
- Specification of goods/services (Nice classes) — choose accurately; you can file in multiple classes (extra fees per class).
- Proof of identity / company registration documents / fee payment proof.
Filing options: KIPI encourages use of its Online services (eCitizen/KIPI portals) or physical filing at KIPI offices in Nairobi. Foreign applicants must appoint a local agent unless filing via Madrid Protocol designations.
Forms and official guidance: KIPI forms & e Services.
3. Examination (formality, search & substantive)
KIPI performs three typical checks: formality (are documents and fees correct?), similarity/conflict search (is there an existing mark which is confusingly similar?), and substantive distinctiveness (is the mark registrable?). If KIPI raises objections you will be given an opportunity to respond or amend your specification. If objections persist, appeals are available under the Trade Marks Act.
4. Publication & opposition (60 days)
If KIPI accepts the application, the mark is published in the Kenya Industrial Property Journal to allow third parties to oppose within 60 days from publication. If opposed, opposition proceedings follow and will extend the timeline. If no oppositions or if resolved in your favor, registration proceeds.
Source: KIPI & leading Kenyan IP guides.
5. Registration, certificate & renewal
Once registered, the certificate is issued and protection runs for 10 years from the registration date; renewals are every 10 years thereafter. Keep accurate address-of-service in Kenya (TM32 or similar) to receive renewal notices; renew early to avoid late fines.
Costs of Trademark registration in Kenya
The following are the current KIPI trademark fees based on the latest published schedule. Fees vary depending on whether the applicant is local or foreign and on the number of classes.
Official KIPI Fees (Local Applicants)
- Similarity Search (TM27): KSh 3,000 per class
- Formal Application (TM2): KSh 3,000 for up to 3 classes, + KSh 1,000 per additional class
- Advertisement: KSh 3,500 for up to 3 classes, + KSh 1,000 per additional class
- Registration Certificate: KSh 5,000 for up to 3 classes, + KSh 1,000 per additional class
- Renewal (TM10): KSh 5,000 first class, + KSh 1,000 per additional class
- Change of Name (TM20): KSh 3,000
- Change of Address (TM17): KSh 3,000
- Assignment (TM14): KSh 3,000
- License (TM48): KSh 3,000
- Agency (TM1): KSh 1,000
Official KIPI Fees (Foreign Applicants)
- Similarity Search (TM27): USD 150 (first class) + USD 50 per additional class
- Formal Application (TM2): USD 150 (first class) + USD 50 per additional class
- Advertisement: USD 150 (first class) + USD 50 per additional class
- Registration Certificate: USD 200 (first class) + USD 50 per additional class
- Renewal (TM10): USD 200 (first class) + USD 50 per additional class
- Change of Name (TM20): USD 150
- Change of Address (TM17): USD 150
- Assignment (TM14): USD 150
- License (TM48): USD 300 (first class) + USD 150 per additional class
- Agency (TM1): USD 50
Professional Fees: Agent and attorney fees vary depending on the number of classes and urgency. Most firms charge between KSh 20,000 and KSh 50,000 for a full filing.
Note: Fees change periodically. Always confirm with the latest KIPI schedule or your agent. Updated: January 2026.
Trademark Registration timeline in Kenya (2026 Guide)
The typical timeline to register a trademark in Kenya is 10 to 16 months. In straightforward cases with quick examination and no objections, the process can take as little as 6 to 10 months. Delays usually arise from examiner workload, late responses to queries, or oppositions filed during the mandatory 60-day publication period at the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI).
Key Stages and Expected Durations
1. Preliminary Search (TM27) – 1 to 3 days: A recommended step to identify conflicting trademarks and reduce the risk of objections.
2. Filing & Examination (TM2) – 2 to 6 months: KIPI conducts formality checks and substantive examination to confirm distinctiveness and absence of conflict.
3. Publication in the Industrial Property Journal – 60 days: If approved, the trademark is published for third-party opposition. This period is legally fixed at two months.
4. Opposition Proceedings – if any, add 3 to 12 months: Objections or disputes can significantly extend the timeline depending on filings and hearings.
5. Registration & Certificate Issuance – 1 to 2 months: If no opposition is filed (or if an objection is resolved), KIPI issues the registration certificate and enters the mark in the register.
Practical expectation: For most applicants, the entire trademark process in Kenya takes 10–16 months from filing to certificate. Marks with objections, queries, or oppositions may extend beyond 18 months.
Timeline based on KIPI guidelines, practitioner experience, and recent market reports (e.g., AMG Advocates). Updated for 2026.
How Long a Trademark Registration Lasts in Kenya
A registered trademark in Kenya is valid for 10 years from the date of registration. Protection can be renewed indefinitely in additional 10-year cycles, provided the renewal fees are paid on time to the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI).
Renewal Window: Renewal may be filed anytime within the final 12 months before expiry. Late renewals are allowed within a grace period, but incur penalty fees.
Continuous protection: As long as renewals are filed every 10 years, the trademark remains active with no limit on the number of renewals.
This reflects current KIPI regulations and Kenya’s Trade Marks Act. Updated for 2026.
Enforcement & what to do if someone infringes
Registered owners can seek injunctions, damages and seizure of counterfeit goods. Unregistered marks may be defended via “passing off” claims but registration makes enforcement easier. Use customs notices and local enforcement agencies (Anti-Counterfeit Authority) for physical goods.
Download — TM forms checklist & sample TM2
Download: TM forms checklist, sample TM2 and official forms (PDF).
Tip: the checklist is free — use it to prepare your TM2 before filing.
Call to Action
If you want us to handle the clearance search, TM2 filing, prosecution and monitoring: Call +254 700 176096 or email info@bieastafrica.com. We provide fixed-fee packages per class and monitoring plans.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to register a trademark in Kenya?
Expect 8–16 months in typical cases; if there are oppositions or appeals this takes longer. (Sources report 8–12 months and up to 16 months depending on objections/oppositions.)
Do foreign companies need a local agent?
Foreign applicants commonly file through a local agent and usually submit a TM1 (appointment) or a stamped power of attorney. The Madrid Protocol can be used for international filings.
What forms do I need?
Common forms include TM2 (application), TM1 (appointment of agent), TM27 (search), and forms for renewal (e.g., TM10 for renewal). Check KIPI's forms page for the current list.
How much does registration cost?
Government fees depend on number of classes and route of filing; professional fees vary. Always quote KES fees by year and link to KIPI’s fee schedule.