Register an EU trademark

Introduction

A European Union trademark (EUTM) is a EU-wide trademark that only needs to be registered with and protected by the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). It gives its holder the exclusive right n use this sign as a trademark for similar or identical products or services throughout all EU member states. The EUTM system was put in place by Regulation No 6/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Cto use a specific sign in relation to certain goods or services. This means that no other person or company caouncil of 12 December 2001 on Community trade marks (hereinafter referred to simply as “Regulation No 6/2002”)

What is a EU trademark?

A trademark is a sign that distinguishes goods or services of one person or organization from those of others. Trademarks can be word marks, slogan marks, device marks, collective membership marks and certification marks. A trademark identifies the source of goods or services. They are usually registered with a national patent office in member states of the European Union (EU) under the legal framework contained within Directive 2008/95/EC on the Community Trade Mark (CTM).

What can a EU trademark protect?

If you’re thinking about registering a trademark, it’s important to understand what a EU trademark can protect. A EU trademark can protect:

• Brand names. This is the name of your company or product that allows customers to identify you and distinguish your products from those of other companies. It could be something catchy like “The Snooty Bean,” or something more creative like “Little Miss Muffet’s Cupcakes.” If customers are going around saying, “I really love that new coffee shop called Little Miss Muffet’s Cupcakes!” then chances are good that they’re referring to your shop rather than some other cupcake joint down the street.
• Company names. If customers have started calling your business by its brand name or product name—and not just by its legal name—then this may mean that it’s time for registration!

Check if the trademark is already registered or in use

Why search for similar trademarks?

There are two reasons why you should search for similar trademarks:

• To make sure that yours is not already registered or in use.
• To find out if there are any potential objections to the trademark being registered (for example, it has been used by another company).

Trademark registration fees

The costs depend on the number of classes you register in. Basic fee , including first class, is: 850€. Second class costs + 50€, third class: +150€, fourth and all subsequent classes costs €150.

There are three classes:

• Class 1 (for goods and services) –
• Class 2 (for services, except those registered in class 1)
• Class 3 (for goods, except those registered in class 1)

Register your trademark online

• Registering your EU trademark online is the quickest and most convenient way to protect your business from infringers. This registration will be valid in all countries that are part of the EU, including Germany.
• You can register a EU trademark for an unlimited period at no extra cost by using online webfilling system with the assistance of our attorney.
• With our online filing system, you do not need to send any letters or documents by post, as all necessary information is inputted into our database automatically when you file.

Do you want to get 1,500€ sme fund grant?

In conclusion, if you are planning on business expansion in the EU, it is important to register your trademark. We hope this article has helped you understand what a EU trademark is, how it can protect your business and why it’s important for trademark registration fees.

Who can benefit from the SME Fund

The SME Fund offers financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) established in the European Union, including OU companies incorporated in Estonia (e-Residents and not e-Residents). An application can be filed by an owner, an employee or an authorized representative of an EU company acting on its behalf; grants are always transferred directly to the beneficiaries.

The application process

The application process is straightforward. To get your application started, gather the following documents and make sure they’re in PDF format (scanned versions of physical documents will also be accepted). All documentation should be legible and without password protection.

1. Your company’s bank statement including details: company name as account holder, full bank account number with country code and BIC/SWIFT code.
2. A VAT certificate or national registration number issued by the competent authority.
3. If your SME employs the services of a representative or you are acting on behalf of an SME, you must submit