Definition

Trademark filing is the official process of applying for registration of a distinctive sign (name, logo, slogan) with a competent office: INPI for France, EUIPO for the European Union, USPTO for the United States, or WIPO for an international application. It grants the owner an exclusive right of use for the designated classes in the chosen territory.

Key steps

• Run a trademark clearance search to confirm availability
• Select the classes of Nice matching the goods and services
• Define the territorial scope
• Submit the application and pay the official fees
• Opposition window after publication (typically 2 to 3 months)
• Final registration if no opposition succeeds

Duration and renewal

A trademark is protected for 10 years from filing and may be renewed indefinitely. Centralising filings in IP software allows tracking of deadlines and coordination of an international trademark portfolio.