A Complete Guide to International Trademark Registration – Secure Your Brand Globally

Trademark Beyond Borders

In today’s interconnected world, businesses are no longer limited by borders. Whether you’re a startup expanding overseas or an e-commerce brand shipping globally, protecting your trademark internationally is essential.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about International Trademark Registration — what it is, how it works, and how you can register your brand worldwide using the Madrid Protocol.

What is an International Trademark?

An international trademark is not a single global trademark. Instead, it’s a system that allows you to apply for protection in multiple countries through one application.

This is done via the Madrid System (Madrid Protocol), administered by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization).

📘 With one application, you can seek protection in over 130+ countries including the USA, EU, UK, Australia, Canada, China, and Japan.

How Does the Madrid Protocol Work?

1️⃣

File in India

Start with a registered or pending trademark in India.

2️⃣

Submit to WIPO

Apply through the Indian registry to WIPO.

3️⃣

WIPO Examines

Formal check and forward to selected countries.

4️⃣

Country Review

Each country examines as per local laws.

5️⃣

Protection Granted

Trademark accepted or objected individually.

Benefits of International Trademark Registration

🌍

One Application

Apply in 130+ countries with a single form.

💸

Cost Efficient

Save time and legal expenses globally.

🧾

Central Management

Easily renew and update from one place.

🛡️

Global Protection

Prevent infringement across key markets.

🚀

Startup Friendly

Perfect for SaaS, exports, and global ecommerce.

Documents Required for International Trademark Filing

Base Indian Trademark

You must have a registered or pending trademark in India.

Application Proof

TM-Acknowledgment receipt or Certificate needed.

Logo/Wordmark

Provide a clear logo or word representation of your mark.

Country List

Specify countries you want to apply protection in.

Applicant Details

Submit nationality, business name, and address details.

Power of Attorney

Authorize us to represent you during the process.

Cost of International Trademark Registration

Factors Affecting Cost

Country count, number of classes, and type of mark influence total cost.

Example Estimate

Filing in USA, UK, EU may cost ₹70,000 to ₹1.2 Lakhs per class.

Fee Composition

Includes WIPO official fees, local agent fees, and filing charges.

Timeline for International Trademark Registration

WIPO Processing

Initial WIPO examination takes 2–3 weeks.

Country Reviews

National exam may take 4–18 months depending on the country.

Protection Duration

Once approved, protection lasts for 10 years, renewable.

⚠️ Limitations to Keep in Mind

Not All Countries are Members

Some Middle East and African nations are not part of the Madrid Protocol system.

Dependency on Base Application

The international registration remains linked to your Indian trademark for 5 years.

Country-Specific Refusals

Each country can object or refuse based on their local laws.

Strict Response Deadlines

You must reply to objections within timeframes set by each jurisdiction.

👥 Who Should File an International Trademark?

Exporters & Importers

Brands shipping goods globally must protect their mark overseas.

E-commerce Businesses

Amazon, Etsy, Shopify sellers expanding abroad should register internationally.

SaaS & Tech Companies

If you serve customers worldwide, protect your digital brand assets.

Franchise & Licensing Models

International trademark rights are essential for licensing and franchising.

Legal Professionals Representing Clients

We assist IP attorneys with Madrid filings for their clientele.

🤝 How Draft It Legal Helps

Base Trademark Filing in India

We ensure your home country application is solid and strategically worded.

Madrid Protocol Application

Drafting, documentation, and filing through WIPO for chosen jurisdictions.

Global Coordination

We coordinate with national IP offices and address objections if any.

Post-Registration Support

Renewals, ownership changes, and portfolio management included.

📲 Ready to Secure Your Trademark Internationally?

Protect your brand across borders with expert legal guidance.

WhatsApp Us Now Email Our IP Team

Request a Demo