Can you get a global trademark?

Photo of Tomas Orsula

Written by Tomas Orsula

Senior Trademark Attorney

No, it is not possible to obtain a single global trademark registration that grants protection in all countries around the world. Trademark rights are territorial in nature, which means they are granted on a country-by-country basis. Each country has its own trademark laws, regulations, and registration procedures.

However, there are mechanisms and international agreements that can help simplify the process of obtaining trademark protection in multiple countries. One such mechanism is the Madrid System, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Through the Madrid System, you can file an international application based on a single primary application or registration in your home country and designate multiple member countries where you seek protection. This system streamlines the filing and management of trademark applications in multiple countries, but it still requires examination and approval by each designated country's trademark office.

Another way to obtain trademark protection in multiple countries is by filing separate applications directly with the national trademark offices of each country where you seek protection. This approach allows you to tailor your applications to the specific requirements and procedures of each country.

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