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Trade Mark Most Asked Questions

Straightforward, fairly priced trade mark registration

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Our packages for those who wish to protect their brands in the UK.

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The Process

To register a trade mark across the entire European Union, the most efficient method is to file a European Union Trade mark (EUTM) application. This application covers all 27 EU Member States. The registration process typically takes about 4-5 months, so long as there are no objections.

The EUTM provides protection in every EU member state. A single similar trademark in any member state can lead to the rejection or cancellation of your application.

If accepted your ™ is registered for 10 years

Home FAQ How Long is the Registration Process

Length of the Trade Mark Registration Process

The duration of the trade mark registration process can vary greatly, ranging from a few months to over two years. It’s important for business owners to be aware of these expected timeframes so that they can plan their operations accordingly and respond promptly to any official correspondence.

The process typically involves two main stages, which can vary by country. Initially, the intellectual property office reviews the formal requirements. If the application meets these requirements, it is then published for opposition, allowing existing trade mark owners to raise objections if they believe the new trade mark infringes on their rights.

How long does it take to register a trade mark?

On average, the trade mark registration process takes between 3 and 18 months, depending on the country, though in some cases, it can extend beyond 24 months.

The process includes several stages, each with varying lengths:

Examination Period: The intellectual property office reviews all formal requirements, typically taking between 1 and 10 months, though some countries may take longer.
Opposition Period: The trade mark is published for oppositions, giving other trade mark holders a window (usually between 1 and 3 months) to raise objections.

It’s important to note that trade mark protection begins from the filing date, not the registration date, provided the application is successful.

How long does it take to obtain a trade mark registration in the UK?

The procedure for obtaining trade mark registration in the United Kingdom is currently taking approximately 5 months, but this can vary depending on the amount of applications the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) receive. Key point – Registration is effective from the date of application i.e. the sooner you apply, the better.

How long does it take for the examiner to assess my trade mark?

The trade mark registration process consists of two stages: the examination period and the opposition period.

The examination period’s average length varies by country. Here are a few examples:

UK: 3 months
EU: 1 month
USA: 11 months
Canada: 18 months
Australia: 5 months
China: 9 months

These timeframes can change based on the IP office’s workload. High volumes of applications can slow down processing times. If the IP office raises an issue, the process can take even longer, sometimes by several additional months.

How can I speed up the process of registering a trade mark?

While you can’t control the standard processing times of intellectual property offices, you can take steps to avoid unnecessary delays:

Ensure Accuracy: Fill in all information and dates correctly to avoid application returns for corrections.
Distinctiveness: Ensure your trade mark is distinctive and not generic or descriptive. Again, this is why we strongly recommend us undertaking a clearance search for you ahead of any trade mark application.
Avoid Oppositions: Research existing trade marks to avoid potential conflicts. A professional trade mark search can help identify similar marks and suggest strategies to avoid opposition.
Correct Goods and Services List: Use the correct terminology for goods and services as recognised by the respective IP office to avoid office actions.

How much does the length of the trade mark registration process differ between countries?

The registration process varies widely between countries, taking between 3 and 18 months on average, with some cases extending to over 24 months.

Key stages include:

Examination Period: Typically takes 1 to 10 months, though this can be longer in some countries.
Opposition Period: Usually lasts between 1 and 3 months.

Trade mark protection starts from the filing date, not the registration date, once the application is successful.

How long will It take to get the registration number for a trade mark?

In some countries, the registration number is the same as the filing number and is issued shortly after filing. It may take a few business days to appear in the IP office’s database.

In jurisdictions like the US, both filing and registration numbers are issued, so you’ll need to wait for USPTO approval for the registration number.

How long will it take to get my trade mark certificate?

The trade mark certificate is issued after the approval of your trade mark application. The time frame varies by country but generally takes about a month.

Your trade mark is effective even without the certificate, and the registration number serves as sufficient proof of ownership in most cases. Most IP offices issue digital certificates, but you can request a physical certificate for an additional fee.

Why Trade Mark?

Trademarking your brand also sets you apart from your competitors and helps you stand out in a crowded market. When you have a registered trademark, it shows customers and potential partners that you are a credible and legitimate business. It also gives you the legal right to take action against anyone who uses your brand without your permission. In addition to protecting your brand, trademarking your brand can also increase its value. Potential buyers will be more likely to invest in a business that has a protected brand, as they know they are getting a unique and established product or service.

What our clients have said

I have been using National Business Registrar for over 10 years now and I’m very happy With their services. They have got an excellent team and are very efficient in their work.

We have placed our trust in NBR for nearly three decades and will continue to do so! Our trademark is our most valued asset, and Start.Biz (National Business Register) protects our business by taking care of all our trademark registration needs.

We've been associated with Mitch and his team for many years and have always been happy with the quality of service provided especially in relation to protecting our trademarks.

I contacted Mitch Willmott at Start.biz recently with a trademark query and to gain some general advice about IP and what I need as a start up business. He honestly could not have been more helpful.

The advice and guidance provided is first class and we would not hesitate in recommending to any business seeking advice or guidance relating to Intellectual Property.