Understanding the key stages in the registration process

Once the application has been filed, the Office will examine the form and substance of the trademark application. In particular, it will check that the trademark meets the various conditions for protection laid down by law.

However, except in a few territories (such as China, Japan or the United States), the offices do not examine trademark availability.

Once the examination has been completed, the Office will publish the trademark to bring it to the attention of third parties.

In most jurisdictions, this publication will open a period during which any third party claiming to have prior rights that would be infringed by the registration of the trademark may file an opposition (the list of types of prior rights that may be invoked is strictly limited, and may vary from one country to another).

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