If you want to protect your trademark in multiple countries, you can apply for an International Trademark using systems designed to simplify cross-border registration.
| System/Route | Description | Applicable Countries |
|---|---|---|
| Madrid Protocol | A global system administered by WIPO that allows trademark owners to file a single application to register in multiple member countries. | 129+ member countries (including India, USA, EU, UAE, China, etc.) |
| Community Trademark (CTM) | Register trademark for the entire European Union with a single application. | All EU member states |
| National Filings | Direct filing in each country where protection is needed. | Countries not covered by Madrid Protocol or specific cases |
File a basic trademark application or registration in your home country (India)
Submit an international application through your country’s trademark office (e.g., IPO India)
Choose the countries where you want protection (Madrid members)
WIPO coordinates with trademark offices of chosen countries for examination
If no objection, trademark gets protection in those countries
Single application and one set of fees
Easy management of trademark portfolio through one office (WIPO)
Cost-effective compared to multiple national filings
Renewal done centrally for all designated countries
Time-saving and less paperwork
Basic fee payable to WIPO (depends on the number of classes and countries)
Complementary fees per designated country (varies)
Filing fee through IPO India (nominal)
International registration can take 12-18 months depending on the countries’ examination procedures.
Your home country registration must be active for the international application.
Each country examines the trademark according to local laws, so refusals can occur in some jurisdictions.
You can add or remove countries after the initial filing during the life of the trademark.
Start at Intellectual Property India (IPO India) website for filing international applications:
https://ipindia.gov.in
WIPO Madrid Portal:
https://www.wipo.int/madrid/en/
