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The registration of trademark is an essential part of business and intellectual property protection. A trademark distinguishes a company's goods and services from those of its competitors and helps build a brand identity. But how long does this protection last and how can it be extended?
Trademark validity period
According to Bulgarian law, a trademark is valid for a period of 10 years from the date of filing the application for registration. This period is standard and applies to both national trademarks and trademarks registered within the European Union (through EUIPO) or worldwide (through WIPO).
Renewal of the term of protection
After the 10-year period, trademark protection can be renewed indefinitely, with each renewal being for another 10 years. In order to renew the term of the trademark, an application must be submitted to the relevant office - national (Patent Office of the Republic of Bulgaria), the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) or the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
Renewal procedure
The trademark renewal procedure is relatively easy, but the deadline for filing the renewal application must be met. Typically, the application must be filed before the expiration of the current 10-year term. In some cases, it can be filed within a grace period after its expiration, but additional fees are then due.
It is also important that the trademark is actively used. According to the law, if the trademark is not used for 5 consecutive years, it can be canceled at the request of a third party.
A trademark provides protection for a period of 10 years from the date of filing the application. This period can be renewed an unlimited number of times, with each renewal being for another 10 years. This allows the business to maintain its commercial identity and enjoy the rights to the trademark for a long period of time. To ensure continuity of protection, it is important to monitor the renewal deadlines and maintain active use of the trademark.
Consulting with an intellectual property specialist will help with the proper management of your trademark and provide the necessary protection for your business interests. Contact us.
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