May 2023 Archive: How to Register an International Trademark
If you're thinking about protecting your brand beyond one country, you’ve probably heard the term “international trademark.” It sounds complex, but the process can be pretty straightforward once you know the right system. In May 2023 we published a guide that breaks down the easiest way to get worldwide trademark protection – the Madrid System. Below is a quick rundown of why it works and how you can use it for your own brand.
Why the Madrid System Rocks
The Madrid System is run by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Instead of filing a separate trademark application in each country, you file one single application. That single filing covers all the member countries you choose, which means you only deal with one set of fees and one paperwork bundle. It also makes future updates—like adding a new country or changing your contact details—much simpler, because you do it through the same central portal.
Another big win is cost. Filing separate applications can add up quickly, especially with legal fees in each jurisdiction. With Madrid, you pay a base fee plus additional fees for each designated country, and those fees are generally lower than the combined cost of individual filings. Plus, you get a single registration date that applies to all the countries you selected, which can be a strategic advantage if you’re racing against competitors.
Step‑by‑Step: Filing Your Trademark
Ready to give it a try? Here’s a practical, no‑fluff walk‑through. First, you need a “basic” trademark registered in your home country. That basic registration is the foundation for the international application. If you don’t have one yet, start by filing locally with your national trademark office.
Once you have the basic registration, head to the WIPO Madrid portal. Create an account, upload your trademark image, and fill in the application form. You’ll select the countries where you want protection—any of the 125+ member states are available. The portal will automatically calculate the total fee based on your selections.
After you submit, WIPO will forward your application to each chosen national office. Those offices will examine it according to their own rules. Most will accept it without any hiccups, but a few might raise objections (like a similar existing mark). If that happens, you’ll have a chance to respond, much like with a regular national filing.
If everything checks out, each office will grant you a trademark registration in its jurisdiction. You’ll receive a single International Registration Certificate from WIPO that lists all the countries where your mark is now protected. From there, you can manage renewals, add new countries, or make changes—all through the same portal.
That’s the whole process in a nutshell: get a home‑country registration, file a single Madrid application, and let the system handle the rest. It saves time, cuts costs, and gives you a clear, centralized way to grow your brand’s protection as you expand into new markets.
We posted this guide in May 2023 because many entrepreneurs were asking for a simple, reliable route to international trademark protection. The feedback has been positive—readers love the clear steps and the cost‑saving angle. If you missed the original post, you can still follow the steps above to start protecting your brand globally today.
Got questions about specific countries, fees, or timelines? Drop a comment in our community forum or reach out directly. We’re happy to help you navigate the details and make sure your trademark gets the protection it deserves.
As a blogger, I've researched the best way to register an international trademark and found that the most efficient method is by using the Madrid System. This system, governed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), allows you to file a single application to protect your trademark in multiple countries. The application process is simplified through a single set of fees and can be managed centrally. Additionally, any future changes, renewals, or expansions in protection can be easily handled through the Madrid System. In conclusion, registering an international trademark is made significantly easier and more cost-effective by using the Madrid System.
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