International trademark registration

The international market offers huge opportunities for companies looking to expand their business beyond national borders. However, protecting the trademark (trademark) is necessary to ensure that your name remains exclusive and protected from copying. In this guide, we will go through the process of international trademark registration, the options available and the strategies you need to follow to protect your brand globally.

Why is international trademark registration important?;

The registration of a trademark at national level does not automatically extend to other countries. If your business operates in different markets or plans to expand abroad, international protection of your trademark is essential.

The main advantages of international registration include:

• Exclusive rights of use of the mark in each country of registration.
• Legal protection from duplications and violations.
• Strengthening the commercial value of your name.
• Facilitating expansion and franchising in international markets.

Available options for international trademark registration

There are three main options for trademark registration at international level:

1. European Trademark (EUTM)

The European Trademark (EUTM) provides protection to all the countries of the European Union with a single request through the EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office).

Advantages:

• Protection in 27 Member States with one application.
• Single management and renewal for all countries.
• Lower costs compared to registering separately in each country.

Procedure:

1. Submit an application to EUIPO with data on the trademark.
2. Check availability and legal compliance.
3. Publication of the application and objection period.
4. Definitive registration and grant of the EUTM certificate.

2. International Trademark through WIPO (Madrid System)

The System of Madrid, managed by World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), allows the trademark registration at over 120 countries with one application.

Advantages:

• Coverage in several countries at once.
• Single administration for renewals and amendments.
• Reduced costs compared to separate registration in each country.

Procedure:

1. Submit national the European application as a basis for international registration.
2. Selection of countries of protection from Madrid Treaty member countries.
3. Evaluation and approval by each national office separately.
4. Definitive registration and validity for 10 years (renewable).

3. Registration in individual countries

For countries not participating in the System of Madrid, such as Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, a separate registration is required.

Procedure:

1. Submit an application to the national intellectual property office in each country.
2. Payment of separate fees for each application.
3. Examination by the competent authorities of the country.
4. Approval and adoption of the a trademark certificate.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The international trademark registration is a valuable but complex process. Some common mistakes include:

• Inadequate availability check: A company can register its trademark in one country but find that the name is already registered in another.
• Failure to plan strategically: Not all markets are equally important for a business. Choose strategically the countries where you will protect your brand.
• Delay in renewal: International trademarks require renewal every 10 years. Failure to do so may result in loss of rights.
• Lack of legal support: The process can be complicated, especially when several countries are involved. Expert help is essential.

What DARC Advertising can do for your business

Η DARC Advertising offers comprehensive trademark registration services to national, European and international level. With our specialization in brand protection, we ensure that your brand is legally protected and enjoys exclusive rights of use in all markets where you operate.