Read more about the Madrid System
If you are going to use your trademark in countries outside the EU, it may be advantageous to apply via the Madrid system.
EU trademark
You can obtain protection in all member states by submitting just one application for an EU trademark. This is suitable if you need protection in many EU countries, and is much easier and cheaper than applying to each individual country.
Advantages of an EU trademark
- Simple, in that you only need to submit one application form
- Cheap
- If less than six months have passed since you filed an application in Norway, you can "take with you" this application date as an advantage when applying for an EU trademark. This is called priority.
Disadvantages of EU trademark
An EU trademark must be registrable in all EU countries. If there are obstacles to registering your trademark in one or more of the countries, it cannot be registered in the EU as a whole. In that case, you can convert your EU application into national applications in the countries where the mark can be registered, paying for each country individually.
What does it cost?
The price starts at 850 euros, but increases depending on the scope of the application. The application is processed by the European Union's trademark office, EUIPO.
Information about fees can be found on the EUIPO website, which also includes a fee calculator.
Is the label valid in Norway?
Norwegian applicants can use this scheme to register a trademark in EU countries. However, since Norway is not a member of the EU, an EU registration does not provide protection in Norway. Therefore, you must apply for registration in Norway separately.
Is the trademark already registered in the EU?
If you find similar trademarks registered in EU countries, it may still be possible for you to register if the registered trademarks relate to goods or services other than those you offer. You can check this in the EUIPO database.
More information
Read more about applying for a trademark in other countries
A trademark is only protected in the countries where it is registered. There are several possible ways to get your trademark registered.
Check the databases to see if the mark is in use.
Search Norwegian and international databases to make sure you are not violating the rights of others,
Get help from a professional advisor
Intellectual property rights are a complex subject. An advisor or patent agent can help you with legal and strategic questions and help you with application writing and follow-up.