How long is a trademark valid for?
The process of registering your trademark can take between three and four months, or longer if any objection is raised.
However, once your trademark is registered, it will remain valid for 10 years.
Once that time has elapsed, you need to renew your trademark to continue its protection.
So long as your trademark is still in use, you can continue renewing it every ten years for ongoing protection.
“When does my trademark begin protecting my IP?”
Your trademark’s ten years of protection begin on the date you file for its registration with UKIPO (The UK Intellectual Property Office).
How trademarks are validated & renewed
If your trademark has already been registered, there is a formal process you must follow to maintain it.
In the UK, registered trademarks are protected for an initial period of 10 years.
This applies from the filing date onward; thereafter, they must be renewed to remain in force.
Ahead of expiry, you will typically receive a reminder prompting you to renew your registration, the renewal process involves completing either a TM3 paper form or submitting the application online via the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO).
It is crucial to ensure this is done within the given timeframe, as failure to do so will result in your trademark being removed from the register.
In some cases, you may also need to review whether your trademark is still being used in connection with the registered goods or services, as non-use over a continuous period can pose challenges or lead to revocation.
Given the legal and commercial importance of trademark protection, many people who are registering or re-registering their trademark seek the guidance of a legal professional.
This is the best way of ensuring your trademark is legally sound and you’re protected.
How long do I have to renew my trademark & what's the cost?
Renewal fees for UK trademarks begin at £200, plus the fact that if you fail to renew your trademark with UKIPO on time, you will lose its legal protection.
You can renew your trademark registration up to 6 months after its renewal date, but if you do, you will be charged an additional late renewal fee.
Once this grace period of six months has elapsed, it is still possible to make an application to restore the trademark for a further six months,
giving you a total of a full year following your trademark’s renewal date to make your application should you wish to do so.
However, if you wish to renew your protection without paying the additional cost beyond the renewal fee, you should make sure to submit your renewal application in plenty of time.
Talk to Orwins for guidance on trademark legality
Talk to our team at Orwins today to find out how our solicitors can help you with your trademark registrations.
