Trademark Registration Guide
Trademark registration is a fundamental step to protect your brand identity and prevent copying by competitors. Through this process, businesses gain legal cover for their brand name, logo or other features that differentiate them. In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of registration, the filing process and the legal dimensions you need to be aware of.
What is a brand and why is it important?;
The trademark is any distinctive element, such as a name, logo, symbol or colour, that distinguishes a business from its competitors. Its registration confers exclusive rights of use and protects against illegal copying.
The main benefits of vesting include:
- Legal protection from businesses trying to copy your trademark
- Preventing confusion among consumers
- Strengthening the commercial value of your business
- Basis for international expansion and franchising
Preparation before registration
Before proceeding with the registration process, it is important to check that your trademark is unique and does not infringe any pre-existing rights. Some key steps include:
- Availability survey: Search the database of the Industrial Property Organisation (OVI) to see if a similar mark is already registered.
- Creating a unique signal: Consider submitting a logo or name that stands out and is easily recognizable.
- Definition of categories of use: Trademarks are registered in specific classes of goods or services (classes) according to the Nice Classification.
Trademark registration procedure in Greece
The registration process involves several steps and requires careful preparation. The main steps are as follows:
-
Submit an application to OBI
The application is made through the online platform of the Industrial Property Agency or in physical form. It includes information about the proprietor, the trade mark and the categories in which it will be registered. -
Evaluation by the OBI
The OVI examines whether the mark meets the legal requirements and whether there is a likelihood of confusion with pre-existing marks. -
Publication and objection period
Once the application is accepted, the mark is published, allowing third parties to object if they consider that their rights are affected. -
Final registration and receipt of certificate
If no objections are raised or rejected, the mark is registered and the holder receives the official certificate.
Duration and renewal of the trade mark
The trademark applies to ten years from the date of registration and may be renewed indefinitely for successive decades. Renewal is made through the OVI before the expiry of the protection period.
International trademark registration
For businesses operating outside Greece, registration at the international level is essential. There are three main options:
- European trademark (EUTM): It is filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and is valid in all EU member states.
- International trademark (Madrid): It is filed through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and covers many countries with a single application.
- National registration in third countries: For States not participating in the system of WIPO, a separate country-by-country registration is required.
Common mistakes when registering a trademark
The registration process can be difficult, and some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Inadequate investigation of availability, which may lead to legal disputes.
- Filing of general or descriptive terms, which are not accepted as trademarks.
- Failure to renew, which may lead to a loss of protection rights.
- Lack of legal support, especially for international registrations, where the legal requirements are more complex.
What DARC Advertising can do for your business
Η DARC Advertising offers specialized trademark registration and strategic branding services, ensuring that your business gets the legal protection it needs. Through our experience in brand strategy and the advertising marketing, we can guide you through every step of the process, from research to final registration.
