For an Australian business, the cost to file a trademark in the EU through the European Union IP Office (EUIPO) via the Madrid Protocol starts from around 3,410 AUD.
This includes the standard 653 CHF (Swiss Francs) Madrid application fee, the EUIPO's specific fee of 789 CHF, and our professional fees for a standard application in one class.
Please note that costs may fluctuate due to exchange rates, fee changes, the type of trademark, and the number of classes you want to protect.
If you add additional countries to your application, you won't need to pay the Madrid application fee again. Filing in multiple countries makes the Madrid application more cost-effective than filing directly in each country.
To get a precise fee estimate for your trademark, click here
Key information about trade mark filing in the EU
An EUIPO trade mark is valid in 27 EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
Popularity: Europe ranks # 5 in popularity for Australian businesses filing trademarks abroad.
Filing stats: The EU is the fifth most popular destination for Australian trademark filings, with 7.4% of total applications in 2022
Language requirements: Applications can be filed in any official EU language, but a second language must be indicated.
Local agent requirement if filing via the Madrid Protocol: A local agent is not required to file a trademark application in Europe via the Madrid Protocol.
Local agent requirement if filing directly: An address for service in the European Economic Area is required if the applicant is not from the EEA.
Benefits of filing a trade mark in Europe
Market Protection: Secure your brand rights in Europe's growing diverse market, which is valued at €17.8 trillion (combined EU market).
Legal Recourse: Gain the ability to take legal action against infringers European courts.
Business Expansion: Facilitate future business growth in Europe, which has a GDP of €15.3 trillion (combined EU GDP).
Brand Recognition: Establish your brand's presence in Europe's market of 447 million (combined EU population) consumers.
Why use the Madrid Protocol?
The Madrid Protocol offers several advantages for international trademark registration:
Cost-Effective: File in up to 128 countries with a single application, saving on multiple filing fees.
Simplified Process: Manage your entire international trademark portfolio through one centralized system.
Time-Efficient: Faster processing compared to filing directly in each country, with an average registration time of 5 months.
FAQs about trade mark filing in Europe
Q: How long does it take to register a trademark through the European Union IP Office?
A: The process typically takes 4-6 months from the date of filing, but can vary depending on specific circumstances such as office actions or oppositions.
Q: What rights does a European trademark provide?
A: A registered trademark in Europe gives you the exclusive right to use, license, and enforce your mark within the country for a period of 10 years, with the option to renew indefinitely.
Q: If the application is filed directly and not using the Madrid Protocol, can I file a trademark in Europe?
A: An address for service in the EEA is required if the applicant is not from the EEA
Q: What are the most common reasons for trademark refusal in Europe?
A: The most common reasons for trademark refusal in Europe include:
A lack of distinctiveness
Similar prior trade marks
Non-compliance with formal requirements
Understanding these potential obstacles can help you create a stronger trademark application.
Trade mark application statistics for Australian businesses filing in Europe
Total number of applications in 2022: 3572
Share of total overseas applications by Australian businesses: 7.4%
Change in applications (2021-2022): -2.7%
Not sure if you need an international trademark? Reach out to us here
Next steps
Protecting your brand internationally is crucial for business growth. If you're considering filing a trademark in European Union IP Office:
Assess your business needs and expansion plans in Europe's, Automotive, Pharmaceuticals sectors.
Get a detailed fee estimate tailored to your specific trademark and filing strategy.
Consult with a trademark professional to discuss your international strategy and ensure your application meets Europe's requirements.
Remember, while cost is an important factor, the long-term value of protecting your brand in key markets often outweighs the initial investment.
Start securing your brand's future in Europe today!
Reach out for help with your international trade mark strategy.
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