Japan Trademark registration
Japan is a member of the Madrid Protocol. Trademark protection is obtained by registration. It can also be acquired by sufficient public recognition. Japan follows the first-to-file system.
Requirements
Japan is a member of the Madrid Protocol. Trademark protection is obtained by registration. It can also be acquired by sufficient public recognition. Japan follows the first-to-file system.
Procedure
The application process includes a formal examination and an examination of distinctiveness, but no search for prior trademarks. It takes approximately 10-15 months from first filing to registration. After registration, the trademark is again published in the Trademark Gazette (Shohyou Kouhou). The opposition period is 2 months from publication of the trademark application.
Duration
A trademark registration in Japan is valid for 10 years and starts with registration date. The registration is renewable for periods of 10 years.
Methods
NATIONAL REGISTRATION: If you just want to register your Trademark in one country, it is sufficient to apply for a national registration at the local trademark office. INTERNATIONAL REGISTRATION (MADRID SYSTEM)*: If you already have filed a trademark application or have a trademark registration in one or more countries of the Madrid Union (based on the Madrid Agreement and Madrid Protocol), you can obtain trademark protection by filing one single application, so called International Registration (Madrid System). *Note: The fees for an International Trademark Application (WIPO) will be calculated for each individual country or multiple countries. For a quotation please send us an e-mail with the name of countries where you currently have a registration and all preferable countries where you wish to extend your trademark protection.
Extra
Duly note, a trademark must be used within 3 consecutive years of the registration date and for 3 consecutive years thereafter, otherwise the registration will become vulnerable to cancellation for non-use.