Written by Tomas Orsula
Senior Trademark Attorney
In most jurisdictions, you can start using the registered trademark symbol only after your trademark has been successfully registered with an intellectual property office. There are countries that don't regulate the use (e.g. Canada), but since that is such a rare exception, we would advise always following the rule to avoid confusing the customers.
This practice also applies to your trademark application - if you submit the mark with the ® sign already on it, the IPO will dismiss your application.
Bear in mind that your registration will only be valid in countries where the given IPO has approved your application. Therefore, you'll be permitted to use the ® symbol only in that country.
Do I need to conduct a trademark search before filing my application?
Can I use a PO Box as the official address on my trademark application?
Is it our US-registered or UK company that should apply for a trademark in the US?
If I register a trademark in one of the EU's member countries, will it be valid in all of the EU?
Is there any additional fee not accounted for in the final price for trademark registration?
Do I need to have a registered trademark before I start selling my goods / services?
What makes a brand eligible to be registered as a trademark?
Our team of experienced trademark attorneys is here to help you! Simply send us an email outlining your request and we'll be happy to assist you.
