The Trademark Registration Process

The trademark registration process

The process starts with a mandatory pre-search on the word or logo before the application is filed. The pre-search confirms whether the mark is eligible for registration and shapes the filing strategy. Once the pre-search returns a positive result, the documents listed below are prepared and the application moves forward.

For a legal entity (company) applicant:

• Company's trade activity certificate
• Company's tax certificate
• Power of attorney
• Trademark sample (logo or word)
• Proof of payment of the application fee

For an individual applicant:

• Applicant's personal information
• Power of attorney
• Trademark sample (logo or word)
• Proof of payment of the application fee
• Pre-search record

With the documents ready and before the application is filed, an individual-level pre-search confirms whether the mark has already been registered. That search runs at no charge through the search page on the website and compares the proposed mark with trademarks registered before the date of the search. Where needed, Sistem Patent reviews the findings and advises on the likelihood of registration.

To start the process, the applicant contacts Sistem Patent. The overall registration period runs from about 6 to 11 months. That period covers the application intake, the examiner's review, the bulletin publication, and the registration step.

Examination

The examiner reviews the trademark within 3 to 4 months of filing. If the trademark passes the review, it is scheduled for publication in the Official Trademark Bulletin. If the examiner finds the mark partially or fully unfit for registration, a partial or full refusal can be issued. The applicant has the right to appeal that decision.

Publication

Trademarks that clear the filing and examination stage are published in the monthly Trademark Bulletin and stay open to opposition for 2 months. Oppositions filed within that window are reviewed by the office. An opposition that succeeds can lead to a refusal or partial refusal. An opposition that fails, or an unopposed trademark, moves to registration.

Registration

Once a decision to register is taken, it is communicated to the applicant or to the trademark agent Sistem Patent. The registration fee is then paid, and the Trademark Registration Certificate is typically issued within about 2 months of payment.