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International Trademark Filing and Registration

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Expanding into international markets requires a strong brand identity. International trademark filing through the Madrid Protocol enables businesses to secure their trademarks across multiple countries using a single international trademark application. Instead of filing separately in each nation, you gain access to global trademark registration, covering more than 130 countries that account for 80% of world trade.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, a start-up, or an established multinational, the Madrid route is the most cost-effective method to apply for international trademark protection and manage renewals and updates centrally. Our international trademark attorneys provide expert guidance to ensure smooth filing and compliance.

Documents required for filing an international trademark application

When filing under the Madrid Protocol, you may need:

  • Power of Attorney (where representation is required)
  • MM2 form for designated member countries
  • MM18 form if designating the United States
  • Priority documents (if claiming priority under the Paris Convention)
  • Exact details of the basic mark (logo, classes, goods, and services)

Member countries and global coverage

The Madrid Union currently covers over 115 members, representing 130+ countries. This includes the world’s largest economies such as the United States, European Union, China, Japan, India, and many more. Together, they represent more than 80% of international trade, making international trademark registration a vital strategy for brand owners. Choosing an international trademark law firm ensures you get the right advice when expanding across diverse legal systems.

Benefits of trademark registration under the Madrid Protocol

Advantages:

  • One application, multiple countries – trademark registration worldwide.
  • Cost savings – far cheaper than filing in each country separately.
  • Centralised management – renewals, updates, and ownership transfers through WIPO.
  • Expansion flexibility – add countries later with subsequent designations.
  • Stronger brand value – global protection enhances business credibility.



Challenges:

  • Central attack risk – if your basic mark is cancelled within 5 years, your international registration may also fall.
  • Country-specific hurdles – local objections or stricter examination requirements may require assistance from an international trademark lawyer in that jurisdiction.

Cost of international trademark filing

The cost of filing under the Madrid Protocol depends on:

  • Number of designated countries
  • Number of classes of goods/services
  • Whether your logo is in black-and-white or colour

WIPO provides a Madrid Fee Calculator to estimate total costs. Legal fees for addressing objections or oppositions may be additional.

Step-by-step process of international trademark registration

1. Secure your basic mark at home

Before you can file internationally, you must first hold a national trademark application or registration in your home country, known as the basic mark. This forms the foundation of your international trademark registration.

2. File your international application

Submit your application through your home IP office. For instance, Indian businesses file via IP India, while U.S. applicants use TEASi. The details must exactly match the basic mark.

3. WIPO formal examination

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) checks the application for procedural compliance. Any irregularities must be corrected within three months to avoid rejection.

4. Publication and notification

Once cleared, WIPO records the mark in the International Register, publishes it in the WIPO Gazette of International Marks, and notifies the trademark offices of the designated countries.

5. Examination by designated countries

Each national office examines your application under its own laws. If no refusal is issued within 12 to 18 months, your international trade mark registration is automatically granted in that country.

6. Renewals and portfolio management

Your international registration is valid for 10 years, renewable every 10 years through WIPO. Changes such as ownership updates or additional designations are managed centrally.

Legal Compliance and Documentation

To maintain compliance, applicants must:

  • Ensure their basic application or registration is valid.
  • File identical details in the international application.
  • Use Nice Classification for goods and services (45 classes).
  • Meet all deadlines for responding to refusals or oppositions.

Who can apply for international trademark registration?

  • Individual entrepreneurs
  • Start-ups and SMEs
  • Companies (Private Limited, LLP, Partnerships)
  • Multinationals expanding into foreign markets


Eligibility requires nationality, domicile, or establishment in a Madrid Protocol member country.

Protect your brand worldwide

Your brand deserves global recognition and security. Kayser & Co, trademark experts simplify the process of international trademark registration, guide you through documentation, and manage compliance across all designated countries. Contact us today to start your international trademark filing and safeguard your business identity worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can file under the Madrid Protocol?

Any applicant with a basic application or registration in a member country.

Between 12–18 months for most countries, depending on their examination timelines.

Yes, through a subsequent designation.

You must work with local counsel to respond. Refusal in one country does not affect others.

Costs vary depending on countries and classes. WIPO’s Madrid Fee Calculator helps estimate fees.

International IP

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