The core differences between the two channels are cost and circulation efficiency: online filing costs CNY 270 per class, is fully electronic, and the application number can be queried the day after same-day submission; window (paper) filing costs CNY 300 per class, requires in-person or postal submission, and circulates more slowly. However, regardless of the channel, the substantive examination standards, examination procedures, and legal effect are exactly the same.
Comparison at a Glance
- Official fee: CNY 270 per class online; CNY 300 per class on paper (each class limited to 10 goods items, with surcharges of CNY 27/CNY 30 per extra item respectively).
- Submission method: online filing goes through the CNIPA online service system; paper filing is submitted at the CNIPA registration hall or local acceptance windows, or by mail.
- Speed: online filing generates the application number immediately, and documents at each stage are served electronically, making the overall process faster.
- Form of materials: online filing is fully electronic; paper filing requires printing the standard form and affixing signatures or seals.
What They Have in Common
- The rules for determining the filing date are the same: the date CNIPA receives the application documents prevails (for online filing, the date of successful submission).
- The examination procedure is identical: formality examination → substantive examination → preliminary approval publication → registration publication.
- The legal effect is identical; the validity of the registration certificate does not differ by filing channel.
How to Choose
- Self-service filing by individuals or enterprises: prefer online filing—it saves money and time, and progress can be checked at any time.
- Complex materials (e.g., collective or certification marks, voluminous priority documents): you may appoint an agency, which will file through the online system on your behalf.
- If you are unfamiliar with electronic systems: you may file at a local trademark acceptance window, though transitioning to the online channel is recommended.
If you are facing the issues above, you can first run a self-service registration check on MyTMBee to confirm feasibility before deciding whether to file, avoiding wasted official fees from blind filings.