Japan Trademark Registration
Japan is a member of Madrid Protocol. An international registration of a trademark may be filed via Madrid System in Japan. Nice Classification is being used in Japan for trademark registration. Multiple-class are possible.
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 the trademark application is filed, it will be examined by the Examiner with the formality checks and substantive examination. If there is no objection, a notice of acceptance will be issued. In case there is an objection, the applicant must respond to the objection within a stipulated time, or else the application will be deemed abandoned. If the application is accepted, it will be published in the Official Journal. Any interested party may oppose the registration of your trademark within 2 months of the publication date. If there is no opposition from any 3rd party, the mark will be registered and the registration certificate will be issued
Time Frame
The processing time from application to registration may takes about 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 is valid for a period of 10 years from the date of registration, and is renewable for 10 years.
Requirements For Trademark Application in Japan:
- Applicant’s name, address and nationality;
- Representation of trademark;
- Description of goods or services;
- Classification of goods and 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).
