Registering a Trademark (TM) – A Crucial Step in Protecting Your Company’s Brand and Intellectual Property. In Europe, the trademark registration procedure varies from country to country; however, the most efficient and universal approach is registration through the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), which provides protection across all EU countries. This article will cover how to register a trademark quickly, what documents are required, and compare registration conditions in various countries.
What is a Trademark?
A trademark (TM) is a sign that identifies a company's goods and services, distinguishing them from competitors. A TM can include words, logos, slogans, and even specific shapes and colors. In Europe, trademarks are known as "Trademark," "Marka Handlowa" (in Poland), "Marque" (in France), "Marca" (in Spain), and other variations depending on the country.
Main Methods of Trademark Registration in the EU
European Trademark (EUTM) through EUIPO – This is the fastest and most cost-effective way to register a trademark in the 27 EU countries. The process is fully centralized, and a single application covers all member countries.
National Registration – Submitting a trademark application in a specific country, such as France or Spain, is ideal for those needing protection in just one or a few countries without planning expansion across the EU.
International Registration via the Madrid Protocol – This allows for trademark registration in multiple countries (including the EU) with a single application through the national office of the applicant’s country.
Documents Required for Registration
To register a TM in the EU, the following documents and details are required:
- Application with applicant information
- Description and image of the TM (if it is a logo or graphic sign)
- Goods and services classes according to the Nice Classification, which will be protected
- Power of attorney for a representative (if registration is done through one)
- Payment receipt for the government fee
Registration Time and Cost
EUIPO: Standard registration time is 4 to 6 months, assuming there are no objections. The basic registration cost for one class is around €850, with a fixed fee for each additional class.
National Registration: Time and cost vary by country. For instance, in Poland, the procedure takes around 6 months.
Best Countries to Register a Trademark in the EU
The best countries to register a trademark in Europe are Cyprus, Estonia, Bulgaria, and Spain.
Cyprus offers a simple procedure and the option to register in English, making it especially convenient for international companies seeking quick brand protection.
Estonia provides modern online services and minimal bureaucratic barriers, making the registration process fast and convenient.
Bulgaria is attractive due to low government fees and efficient procedures, ideal for companies on a budget.
Spain, although it requires more time for registration, offers high levels of protection and prestige, which are advantageous for companies targeting the large European market.
How to Register a TM Quickly?
The choice of country depends on your business’s goals and specifics; however, the best solution remains the unified European trademark (EUTM), which provides comprehensive brand protection and avoids the need for re-registration in each country.
If you are planning to establish your trademark in the EU, we recommend contacting specialists at IT-OFFSHORE.
