Cost of Trademark Registration in Kenya 2026: TM27, TM2 and Total Fees Explained

Understanding the cost of trademark registration in Kenya is the first step every business owner, founder or in-house counsel must take before filing with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI). As of 2026, KIPI maintains separate fee schedules for local and foreign applicants, and the total outlay depends on the number of classes you register in, whether you conduct a preliminary TM27 search, and whether you engage an intellectual-property agent or file on your own. This guide consolidates the official KIPI fee schedule, walks through the TM2 application process step by step, and provides worked cost examples so you can budget with confidence before a single form is submitted.

At-a-Glance 2026 Cost Summary: Official KIPI Trademark Fees

The table below draws directly from the official KIPI fee schedule for trade marks, which lists fees payable by local applicants in Kenya Shillings (KES) and by foreign applicants in United States Dollars (USD). These are government fees only, they do not include agent or lawyer charges, which are discussed separately below.

Source: KIPI, Trade Mark Fees: Local and Foreign (official PDF). All figures are per the gazetted schedule current as of May 2026. Exchange-rate conversions are not necessary because KIPI publishes separate KES and USD columns for local and foreign applicants respectively.

Sample cost scenarios

To illustrate the trademark registration cost in Kenya for different situations, here are three worked examples using official KIPI fees only (no agent charges):

• Local applicant, single class (e.g., Class 25 for clothing). TM27 search KES 2,000 + TM2 application KES 5,000 + registration KES 3,000 + publication KES 3,000 = KES 13,000 total.
• Local applicant, three classes (e.g., Classes 9, 35 and 42 for a tech company). TM27 search KES 6,000 (3 × 2,000) + TM2 application KES 13,000 (5,000 first class + 2 × 4,000) + registration KES 3,000 + publication KES 3,000 = KES 25,000 total.
• Foreign applicant, single class, filing through a Kenyan agent. TM27 search USD 100 + TM2 application USD 250 + registration USD 150 + publication USD 150 = USD 650 in KIPI fees, plus agent professional fees (typically USD 400–800 depending on the firm).

These figures give a reliable starting budget. The sections below break every element down in detail so there are no surprises.

How to File a Trademark in Kenya: Step-by-Step TM2 Application Process

The process of registering a trademark in Kenya is governed by the Trade Marks Act (Cap 506) and administered by KIPI. It follows a logical sequence: search, apply, examine, publish, and register. Each stage has its own form, fee and timeline.

What is the TM2 form?

Form TM2 is the official application to register a trade mark with KIPI. The applicant provides the mark itself, whether a word mark, device (logo), combined word-and-device, or a series of marks, together with the goods or services description and the relevant Nice Classification class or classes. The TM2 form can be downloaded from the KIPI trade marks page. A completed TM2 must include a clear graphic representation of the mark measuring no larger than 8 cm × 8 cm, printed or uploaded in high resolution if filing electronically.

Who may file: local applicants, foreign applicants and address for service

Any person, company or organisation that uses or proposes to use a trade mark in Kenya may apply. Local applicants file in their own name and provide a Kenyan postal address. Foreign applicants must appoint a registered trademark agent or advocate with a physical address in Kenya to act as their address for service, this requirement is satisfied by filing Form TM32 alongside the TM2 application. Foreign businesses should factor in the cost of engaging a local agent when budgeting for the total cost of trademark registration in Kenya.

Required documents checklist

Whether you file online or in person, KIPI requires the following at the application stage:

• Completed Form TM2, signed by the applicant or authorised agent.
• Graphic representation of the mark, six identical prints (if filing physically) or a high-resolution image file.
• List of goods or services, classified under the International (Nice) Classification of Goods and Services.
• Proof of identity, national ID or passport for individuals; certificate of incorporation or registration for companies.
• Power of attorney or Form TM32, required only where the applicant is represented by an agent or where the applicant is a foreign entity appointing a local address for service.
• Priority document, if claiming convention priority under the Paris Convention, submit the certified copy within three months.
• Payment receipt, proof that the TM2 application fee has been paid to KIPI.

Filing channels: online vs in-person at KIPI

KIPI accepts trademark applications both over the counter at its offices in Nairobi (KIPI Centre, off Ngong Road) and through its online filing portal. The online portal allows applicants to upload forms, attach documents and pay via mobile money or bank transfer. For in-person filings, all forms and payments are submitted at the Registry, and an official receipt is issued immediately. Industry observers note that online filing is generally faster for acknowledgement of receipt, though examination timelines are the same regardless of filing channel.

Typical timeline from filing to registration

The timeline for KIPI trademark registration varies depending on workload and whether any objections or oppositions arise. A straightforward, unopposed application typically follows this path:

• Filing and formalities check: 1–2 weeks after submission.
• Substantive examination: 6–12 months from filing (KIPI examines for absolute and relative grounds of refusal).
• Acceptance and publication: Once accepted, the mark is published in the Kenya Gazette for a 60-day opposition period.
• Opposition period: 60 days from publication date. If no opposition is filed, registration proceeds.
• Issuance of registration certificate: 1–3 months after the opposition window closes.

End-to-end, applicants should budget 12–18 months for an uncontested application. Contested marks or those that receive official objections may take 24 months or longer to reach final resolution.

Official KIPI Trademark Fees Explained: Local vs Foreign and the Cost of Trademark Registration in Kenya

KIPI publishes a single gazetted fee schedule with two columns: one for local applicants (payable in KES) and one for foreign applicants (payable in USD). This dual-currency structure means that foreign businesses do not need to worry about exchange-rate fluctuations when budgeting, KIPI quotes a fixed USD figure. Below is a detailed breakdown of every fee you are likely to encounter during the trademark lifecycle.

Application fees (Form TM2)

The TM2 application fee for a local applicant is KES 5,000 for the first class and KES 4,000 for each additional class filed in the same application. For foreign applicants the equivalent figures are USD 250 (first class) and USD 200 (each additional class). These fees are payable at the time of filing and are non-refundable even if the application is ultimately refused.

Search fees (Form TM27)

A TM27 preliminary search costs KES 2,000 per class for local applicants and USD 100 per class for foreign applicants. While the search is not legally mandatory before filing a TM2 application, it is strongly recommended. A trademark search in Kenya helps identify conflicting marks that could lead to refusal or opposition, saving both time and money in the long run.

Examination, publication and registration fees

After acceptance, KIPI charges a registration fee of KES 3,000 (local) or USD 150 (foreign), plus a publication fee of KES 3,000 (local) or USD 150 (foreign) to cover the Kenya Gazette notice. Some practitioners include these under a single “registration” line item, but they are technically separate payments due at different stages of the process.

Renewal and late-renewal fees

Trademark renewal in Kenya is due every ten years from the filing date. The renewal fee is KES 5,000 per class (local) or USD 250 per class (foreign). If the renewal deadline is missed, KIPI allows a six-month grace period subject to a late-renewal surcharge of KES 2,000 (local) or USD 100 (foreign). Failure to renew within the grace period results in removal of the mark from the register.

Other miscellaneous KIPI fees

Beyond the core filing and renewal cycle, KIPI charges fees for a range of ancillary actions:

• Assignment or transfer of a mark: KES 3,000 (local) / USD 150 (foreign).
• Recordal of a licence or registered user agreement: KES 3,000 (local) / USD 150 (foreign).
• Certified copy of any entry on the register: KES 1,000 (local) / USD 50 (foreign).
• Request for extension of time: KES 1,000 (local) / USD 50 (foreign).
• Notice of opposition (Form TM6): KES 5,000 (local) / USD 250 (foreign).

All of the figures above are drawn from the KIPI official trade mark fee schedule (PDF). Applicants should verify the latest fee schedule on the KIPI website before filing, as gazetted fees can be updated by statutory instrument.

Self-File vs Trademark Agent: Real Total Cost Comparison

Once you know the official KIPI fees, the remaining variable in the cost of trademark registration in Kenya is whether you handle the process yourself or engage a professional agent. Both approaches have clear advantages and trade-offs.

Self-filing: what it costs and when it makes sense

Self-filing eliminates agent fees entirely. A local entrepreneur registering a single-class word mark pays approximately KES 13,000 in total government fees (search through registration). The process is achievable for straightforward word marks in common classes where the applicant is comfortable completing the Nice Classification description and responding to any official queries from the examiner.

Self-filing works best when:

• The mark is a simple word mark or standard logo.
• The applicant is registering in one or two familiar classes.
• The applicant is based in Kenya and can attend KIPI offices or use the online portal without difficulty.

Using an agent: what it costs and when it is worth it

Professional fees charged by Kenyan trademark agents and IP law firms vary, but typical ranges reported by practitioner directories and service guides fall between KES 30,000 and KES 80,000 (approximately USD 230–620) for a single-class application on a straightforward mark. Multi-class applications, marks likely to face opposition, and filings involving foreign applicants tend to attract higher fees. The agent’s fee usually covers the TM27 search, preparation and filing of TM2, correspondence with KIPI during examination, and follow-up through to the grant of the registration certificate.

Using an agent is advisable when:

• The applicant is a foreign company without a Kenyan address for service.
• The mark is complex (device marks, series marks, colour claims).
• The goods or services description spans multiple classes or requires strategic drafting.
• There is a risk of opposition from a competitor with a similar mark.

Hidden costs to budget for

Regardless of whether you self-file or hire an agent, watch out for these additional costs that are sometimes overlooked:

• Responding to official objections: If KIPI raises an objection during examination, you may need legal help to draft a response or attend a hearing, agent fees for objection responses typically range from KES 15,000 to KES 40,000.
• Opposition defence: If a third party opposes your mark, defending the opposition involves filing a counter-statement (KIPI fee KES 5,000) plus legal representation costs that can exceed KES 100,000 in complex matters.
• Notarisation and apostille: Foreign applicants may need notarised powers of attorney, adding USD 50–150 depending on the originating country.
• Translation costs: Marks or specifications in languages other than English or Swahili may require certified translations.

After You Register: Renewals, Oppositions, Assignments and Enforcement Costs

Securing a registration certificate is not the end of the story. Maintaining and enforcing your trademark involves ongoing costs that should be part of any long-term IP budget.

Trademark renewal in Kenya: ten-year cycle

A registered mark must be renewed every ten years to remain on the register. The renewal fee is KES 5,000 per class for local owners and USD 250 per class for foreign owners. KIPI sends a reminder before the due date, but the obligation rests with the proprietor. Allowing a registration to lapse means the mark is removed from the register and a competitor could apply for an identical or confusingly similar mark.

Opposition and defence timelines

Legal costs for a contested opposition can range from KES 100,000 to KES 500,000 or more, depending on the complexity and volume of evidence. Early settlement negotiations are often the most cost-effective resolution.

Assignment, licensing and enforcement

If you sell your business or licence your brand, KIPI charges KES 3,000 (local) or USD 150 (foreign) to record an assignment or licence. Enforcement against infringers begins with a cease-and-desist letter, typically costing KES 10,000–30,000 if prepared by an advocate, and can escalate to High Court proceedings where costs depend on the claim’s value and duration. Early action and a registered mark significantly strengthen your legal position, making the importance of IPR protection clear for every Kenyan business.

Practical How-To: TM27 Trademark Search and Common TM2 Filing Errors

Before spending a single shilling on a TM2 application, running a TM27 trademark search in Kenya is the smartest investment you can make. It costs a fraction of the application fee and can save months of wasted time.

How to run a TM27 search at KIPI

The process is straightforward:

1. Download Form TM27 from the KIPI trade marks page.
2. Complete the form, specify the word element of your mark and the class(es) you intend to register in.
3. Pay the search fee, KES 2,000 per class (local) or USD 100 per class (foreign).
4. Submit to KIPI, online via the portal or in person at the Nairobi registry.
5. Receive the search report, KIPI typically issues the report within 5–10 working days. The report lists identical or similar marks on the register and pending applications in the same class.

If the search reveals conflicting marks, you can adjust your mark, narrow your goods description or choose a different brand name before incurring the higher TM2 application costs. A clean search result gives strong (though not absolute) confidence that your application will proceed through examination without a relative-grounds objection.

Common TM2 errors that delay acceptance

Practitioners report that the following mistakes are the most frequent causes of delays or refusals at KIPI:

• Incorrect Nice Classification. Assigning goods or services to the wrong class triggers an official objection and delays examination. Use the current edition of the Nice Classification and consult the WIPO classification tool if in doubt.
• Vague goods or services descriptions. Broad or unclear descriptions such as “all goods in Class 25” are routinely objected to. List specific items, for example, “shirts, trousers, jackets and footwear.”
• Poor-quality mark representations. Blurry or oversized images fail formalities checks. Submit a clean, high-resolution image within the 8 cm × 8 cm limit.
• Missing power of attorney. Foreign applicants often forget to attach Form TM32 or a notarised power of attorney, which halts processing until the document is supplied.
• Unsigned forms. Every TM2 must be signed by the applicant or their authorised agent. An unsigned form is returned without examination.

Avoiding these common errors can shave weeks off your registration timeline and reduce the risk of incurring additional fees for re-filing or responding to objections.

Conclusion: Budgeting for the Cost of Trademark Registration in Kenya

The cost of trademark registration in Kenya in 2026 is transparent and manageable when you work from the official KIPI fee schedule. A local applicant registering a single-class mark will spend approximately KES 13,000 in government fees if they self-file, while a foreign applicant should budget around USD 650 in KIPI fees plus USD 400–800 in agent charges. Multi-class filings, opposition defence and long-term renewals add to the total, but these costs are predictable and can be planned for.

The smartest way to begin is with a TM27 search to identify conflicts early, followed by a carefully prepared TM2 application with the correct classification and a clear mark representation. Whether you self-file or engage a qualified trademark agent, having the right information up front prevents costly delays. For businesses seeking local guidance, the Kenya section of the Global Law Experts lawyer directory connects you with experienced intellectual-property practitioners who can review your filing strategy and walk you through every stage of the KIPI process.

Sources

1. Kenya Industrial Property Institute, Trade Marks
2. KIPI, Trade Mark Fees: Local and Foreign (PDF)
3. WIPO, World Intellectual Property Organization
4. Bond Advocates, Registering Trademarks in Kenya
5. WKA Advocates, Cost of Trademark Registration in Kenya
6. BizBrokersKenya, Trademark Guide
7. Afrisetup, Trademark Registration Kenya
8. BIEastAfrica, Trademark Registration 2026