From search to certificate

1. 1. Search and plan

   You and us. You tell us the name, what it covers and where you sell. We look for earlier marks that could stand in the way and help you choose the countries and the classes. The time this takes depends on how many countries you want to cover, and we tell you when we send the quote.

2. 2. Quote and approval

   You. You get a quote that shows the official fee and our fee separately. Nothing is filed or charged until you approve it. Then you pay by bank transfer. See payment and refunds.

3. 3. Filing

   Us. When your payment has arrived, we file the application with the office, or with each office if you chose several countries. The date of filing is important: in many countries the earlier application wins.

4. 4. Examination

   The office. The office checks the application. It may find a problem and send an objection with a deadline to answer. Each office has its own pace, so this is the step whose length differs most between countries. See why offices refuse.

5. 5. Publication, opposition and registration

   The office, and others. If the application passes, the office publishes it. For a period set by each office, others who have an earlier right can oppose it. If nobody opposes, or an opposition fails, the mark is registered and you receive a certificate. If an opposition has to be fought, we can arrange a partner in that country; see trademark disputes.

After registration

A registration lasts for a set period, often ten years, and then has to be renewed. Many countries also expect the mark to be used. Keep the dates: we can handle renewals and watch for similar new filings.

Time limits the offices publish

These are examples taken from the offices' own published rules. Details for a country are on its page, and they can change.

Other countries: see Countries or ask us. This page is general information and is not legal advice.