Trademark Registration with the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) of Pakistan

If you own a business, it’s important to protect your brand and intellectual property. One way to do this is by registering a trademark with the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) of Pakistan. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the process of trademark registration in Pakistan.

Step 1: Trademark Search

The first step in the trademark registration process is to conduct a search to make sure that your desired trademark is not already registered or similar to existing trademarks. This search can be done on the IPO website or in person at the Trademarks Registry Office in Islamabad.

Step 2: Filing of Trademark Application

Once you’ve conducted a search and confirmed that your trademark is available, the next step is to file a trademark application with the IPO. You can file this application online through the IPO e-services portal or in person at the Trademarks Registry Office.

The application must include the following information:

The name and address of the trademark owner

The trademark itself

The goods or services that the trademark will be used for

The class of goods or services (the IPO follows the Nice Classification system)

Step 3: Examination of Trademark Application

After filing the trademark application, the IPO will examine it to ensure that it meets all the requirements. The examination will verify that the trademark is distinctive, not offensive, and not similar to any existing trademarks.

Step 4: Publication in Trademarks Journal

If the IPO is satisfied that your trademark meets all the requirements, it will publish your trademark in the Trademarks Journal. This publication serves as a public notice to give other people the opportunity to oppose your trademark registration.

Step 5: Opposition Period

After your trademark is published in the Trademarks Journal, there is a two-month opposition period. During this time, anyone can oppose your trademark registration by filing an opposition with the IPO.

Step 6: Registration and Payment of Fees

If no opposition is filed during the opposition period, the IPO will issue a Certificate of Registration, and you’ll need to pay the registration fee. The Certificate of Registration serves as proof of ownership and protection of your trademark.

Step 7: Renewal of Trademark Registration

Trademark registrations are valid for ten years, and you’ll need to renew your trademark registration after every ten years. The renewal process is similar to the initial registration process, and you’ll need to pay the renewal fee.

In conclusion, trademark registration in Pakistan involves conducting a trademark search, filing a trademark application, examination of the application, publication in the Trademarks Journal, opposition period, registration and payment of fees, and renewal of trademark registration. It’s important to follow all the guidelines and regulations set by the IPO to ensure that your trademark is adequately protected. Registering your trademark is an essential step in safeguarding your brand and intellectual property.