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How can I register a trademark in multiple countries?

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

Two routes are available for registration in multiple countries.

National applications: file directly with the IP office of each country. Each application is handled independently under that country's rules. This approach gives full control over each filing and is typically the right choice for a small number of specific countries.

Madrid System (WIPO): file a single international application designating multiple countries simultaneously. This is cost-efficient at scale (typically from five or more countries) and simplifies renewal, since a single WIPO renewal covers all designated countries. Each designated country still examines the application under its own national rules.

Regional systems also apply in certain cases: an EU trademark (EUIPO) covers all 27 EU member states through one application; the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and OAPI cover multiple African countries similarly.

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