The 10-Year Validity Period

A Chinese trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the registration date, renewable indefinitely for additional 10-year periods. Unlike some jurisdictions, there are no maintenance fees or declarations of use required during the 10-year term — just one renewal at the end of each period.

Renewal Timeline

Ideal Window: 12 Months Before Expiry

You can file for renewal up to 12 months before the expiry date. Filing early has no downside — your new 10-year period starts from the original expiry date, not from the renewal filing date. Early renewal prevents last-minute emergencies.

Grace Period: 6 Months After Expiry

If you miss the expiry date, China provides a 6-month grace period. You can still renew during this window by paying a late renewal surcharge (approximately +50% of the base fee). Your rights remain protected during the grace period.

After Grace Period: Registration Expires

If you fail to renew within the grace period, the registration is cancelled. There is no restoration procedure — you must file a new application. This is extremely risky because in the gap between expiry and your new filing, someone else could register the mark.

Renewal Fees (2026 Estimates)

• Official CNIPA fee: RMB 500 per class (online filing)
• Agent service fee: Typically RMB 500-1,000 per class
• Late renewal surcharge: Additional RMB 250 per class
• Total cost per class for timely renewal: approximately RMB 1,000-1,500 (USD 140-210)

Required Documents

• Power of Attorney (notarized if filed through an agent)
• Copy of the existing registration certificate
• Business license or ID of the registrant

After Renewal

CNIPA issues a renewal certificate confirming the new 10-year validity period. Update your internal IP management system with the new expiry date, and set reminders for the next renewal 10 years out.

Portfolio Management Tips

• Centralize tracking: Maintain a spreadsheet or IP management system with all registration dates and renewal deadlines
• Set multiple reminders: Calendar alerts at 18 months, 12 months, and 6 months before each expiry
• Bundle renewals: If multiple marks expire in the same year, consider processing them together for efficiency
• Audit your portfolio: Before renewing, assess whether each mark is still commercially relevant. Let unused marks lapse to save costs