How long does it take to register a trade mark?

The time that elapses between an application being filed and registration being granted is dictated primarily by the underlying procedural framework. Most countries have a broadly similar structure comprising examination of the application followed by its publication and, finally, the grant of registration. In most jurisdictions, the rights conferred by registration will date from the date on which the application was filed.

The time taken between filing and grant will also depend on what happens during examination and, assuming the application makes it through examination, whether it is opposed following publication.

The main stages and current ballpark timings for a UK trade mark application are set out below.

For more information and advice on filing trade mark applications in the UK or elsewhere, please contact us.