Trademark classes in Pakistan: how to choose the right one

Pakistan uses the international Nice Classification, which has 45 classes: 1 to 34 for goods and 35 to 45 for services. Your trademark protects only the class or classes you file in, so choose the ones that describe what you actually sell.

Last updated . Rules and rates change with each Finance Act; confirm on the official site linked in this guide.

How do the 45 trademark classes work?

Each class groups similar goods or services. Each application covers one class. If you sell clothing and run a retail shop, you may need class 25 and class 35.

Examples of common classes

Selected Nice classes
ClassCovers
3Cosmetics and cleaning products
9Software, apps, electronics
25Clothing, footwear, headwear
35Advertising, business management, retail services
41Education, training, entertainment
42IT services, software as a service, design
43Restaurants and food services

What does class 45 cover?

Class 45 is the last service class. It covers legal services, security services for the physical protection of property and people, and personal and social services provided by others, such as dating or funeral services. If your business is a law firm, a security company or a similar personal service, class 45 is likely one of yours. If you sell clothing, food or software, it is not.

What if you choose the wrong class?

A mark registered in the wrong class does not protect your real business, and correcting it usually means a new application and new fees. See trademark registration cost in Pakistan. Ask for help if your activity spans several classes.

Next step

Once you know your class, follow how to register a trademark in Pakistan. After registration, diary the renewal date: trademark renewal in Pakistan.

How to describe your goods and services

List what you actually sell in plain words, for example "women's clothing" or "accounting software as a service". Avoid claiming goods you do not plan to sell. Broad claims invite objections and can be attacked later for non-use: see renewal and use rules.

Questions people ask about trademark classes

How many classes do I need?

One for each group of goods or services you want protected.

Can I add a class later?

Yes, by filing a new application for that class.

Is a software business class 9 or class 42?

Often both: class 9 for downloadable software and class 42 for software as a service.