The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) is a bi-national agency in Paris and Vienna. It was established in 1994 as part of the single market programme and had since steadily increased its role in intellectual property. It now handles the registration and protection of trademarks, designs, geographical indications (GIs), patents, industrial designs, and copyrights.

There are many benefits to filing a trademark with EUIPO. These include easier incidences for enforcement and broader international recognition of your trademark. Furthermore, it can be hassle-free – all you need to do is submit an application and pay the required fees. However, there are some potential pitfalls that you should be aware of before submitting your trademark application to EUIPO.

What is the procedure for EUIPO trademark registration?

Three primary steps make up the process for registering a EUTM:

• Application review,
• Objection, and
• Registration.

The lifespan of an EU trademark (EUTM) is ten years. It is renewable for ten years at a time, perpetually. The EUIPO will notify the owner, their representative, or any other registered rights holder in writing six months before the registration expires that it is up for renewal. The registration will not expire if such information is not provided, and the Office is not held accountable. The renewal request form can be used to submit a request for renewal online.

Any one of the 23 official languages of the European Union may be used as the “first language” when submitting an EU trademark application. One of the five Office languages—English, German, French, Spanish, or Italian—must be chosen as a second language. The second language, which will be used for any objection and/ or revocation proceedings, must be different from the first language selected.

What are the requirements for EUIPO Trademark registration?

Applications for EU trademarks may only be submitted at the EUIPO. You can file by utilizing any of the following methods:

• e-filing refers to online applications submitted through a user area,
• By mail, or
• By express delivery service.

There are many benefits to registering a trademark with EUIPO, including the following:

• Increased protection against brand infringement;
• Improved consumer confidence;
• Deterrent effect against counterfeiting and piracy; and
• Quicker resolution of disputes

In all Member States of the European Union where the cause for rejection does not apply, an EU trademark application that has been rejected or an EU trademark that has been declared invalid or canceled may be converted into a national trademark application. The filing date of the EU trademark application will be carried over into the succeeding national trademark application.

Conclusion

Given that trademark registration with the EUIPO is a mandatory requirement under the Madrid Protocol, it is important for businesses operating within the European Union to take steps to protect their trademarks. By registering your trademark with EUIPO, you can prevent others from using your mark without your permission and take other necessary measures as may be appropriate.

We hope this article enlightens you about the need and specifications for trademark registration in EUPIO. We, the Brealant, the fastest growing law firm available, provide you with assistance and guidance in acquiring rights on business. For further information, visit our website and discuss all your intellectual property-related questions with our experts.