A trademark in Pakistan lasts ten years and is renewable indefinitely — but there’s a twist: the second renewal requires proof that you’ve actually used the mark. Here is the renewal timeline.
Term and renewal window
- A trademark is valid for ten years. For marks filed after 12 April 2004, the ten years run from the application date, renewable every ten years.
- File the renewal within the six months before expiry.
Missed the deadline? Late renewal
If the renewal fee is unpaid by the deadline, the mark is published in the Trade Marks Journal under “Unpaid Renewal Fee.” You can then renew late, with a surcharge, within four months of that publication, on payment of the applicable fees.
The second-renewal use requirement
A distinctive feature: on the second renewal, it is mandatory to show evidence of use of the mark. Keep your use records (invoices, advertising, sales) ready — a long-held mark can be at risk at the second renewal without them.
Restoration
If both the renewal and late-renewal windows lapse and the mark is removed, you may file a restoration request within six months of removal, paying the renewal + restoration fees. Restoration needs approval from the Pakistan IPO.
Final recordal
On a successful renewal or restoration, the Pakistan IPO issues notice and publishes the recordal in its Trade Marks Journal.
Practical guidance
- Diarise the six-month renewal window for every Pakistani mark, and again the second renewal with use evidence.
- Don’t rely on late renewal — it is a limited, surcharged safety net.
- Move fast on restoration — the window is only six months from removal.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a trademark last in Pakistan? Ten years, renewable every ten years (from the application date for marks filed after 12 April 2004).
What happens if I miss the renewal deadline in Pakistan? The mark is published as “Unpaid Renewal Fee”; you can renew late with a surcharge within four months of that publication.
Is proof of use required to renew in Pakistan? Yes — on the second renewal, evidence of use of the mark is mandatory.
Can a removed mark be restored? Yes — a restoration request can be filed within six months of removal, subject to Pakistan IPO approval.