The trademark process generally comprises of 4 stages.
Filing stage – this is where we file your application at the relevant trademark offices.
Examination stage – this is where the trademark office will examine a trademark application, and if there are any issues, an objection will be raised.
Publication stage – this is usually a 2/3-month period for any third party to object a trademark application.
Registration stage – this is where your certificate will be issued.
As trademarks are territorial and must be filed separately in different countries, the time frame for a trademark to be registered varies from country to country. In Singapore for example, the entire process takes about 8 months unless objections are raised at the examination stage. In countries such as China, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, it could take between 12 to 18 months.
The overall time frame depends on whether the trademark encounters any objections (office actions) during examination or opposition at the publication stage. If so, then it could take anywhere between 12 to 36 months.
It is generally advisable to conduct a preliminary trademark availability search to assess any potential risks against your trademark application. This can also help you save on costs or be made aware of possible office actions and strategies to overcome them. This is not to say that if conducting a preliminary search avoids receiving an office action but allows you to be better prepared.
Get in touch today!
We understand that filing and registering a trademark in Singapore or Southeast Asia can be daunting if you are not fully apprised of the process and requirements. Before taking the right steps, you might have a lot of questions because the idea of a trademark is to protect your business interest as well as maximize your revenue.
If you would like to know more about registering your trademark in Singapore or regionally in Southeast Asia, including searching for a trademark or responding Office Actions, and would like us to help you, click here to write to us for a fee quote or schedule a short call complimentary call with one of our trademark lawyers. For small businesses and startups, we offer special consultation rates. Get in touch with us today!