Japan Trademark Registration
To protect your trademark in Japan, application must be filed with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). Nice Classification is being used in Japan for trademark registration and multiple-class are allowed.
Trademark Search
Before applying for a trademark, you might want to conduct a search to find out if there are any identical or similar trademarks on the Trademark Register. However, it is an optional procedure for filing the trademark application.
Time frame: 5 – 7 working days
Trademark Application
Once a trademark application is filed, it will undergo formality and substantive examination by the Japan Patent Office to ensure that it meets all requirements and that the mark is registrable. If no grounds for refusal are found, the examiner will issue a decision of registration. In case of any objections, the applicant will receive a notification of reasons for refusal and must respond within the specified time limit.
After a decision of registration is issued, the applicant must pay the registration fee within 30 days. Once the payment is made, the trademark will be registered and published in the Trademark Gazette. Any interested party may file an opposition within two months from the date of publication. If no opposition is filed, the registration remains valid and the registration certificate will be issued.
Time Frame
The processing time from application to registration generally takes 9 – 12 months . However, if there are objection from the trademark office or opposition from anyone else, it may take longer.
Validity of Registration:
A registered trademark in Japan is valid for 10 years from the date of registration and can be renewed every 10 years.
Requirements For Trademark Application in Japan:
- Applicant’s name, address and nationality
- Representation of the trademark
- Classes and description of goods or services
- Certified translation and transliteration if your trademark contains words in language other than the national language or English language.
- If the applicant claims convention priority, a certified copy of foreign application is required (with English translation).
