Is Canada Part of the Madrid Protocol?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you a business owner who wants to expand your brand internationally? If so, you might be wondering whether Canada is part of the Madrid Protocol. In this article, we’ll answer your question and provide helpful information about this topic.

What is the Madrid Protocol?

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that allows businesses to register their trademarks in multiple countries with a single application. This means that instead of filing separate applications in each country where you want to protect your trademark, you can file one application through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Is Canada a Member of the Madrid Protocol?

Yes, Canada is a member of the Madrid Protocol. In fact, Canada joined the protocol on June 17, 2019, making it one of the newest members.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

If your business is based in a country that is also a member of the Madrid Protocol, you can use this system to apply for trademark protection in Canada. This can save you time and money compared to filing separate applications in each country where you want protection.

How to Apply for Trademark Protection in Canada

To apply for trademark protection in Canada through the Madrid System, you must first file an application with your home country’s trademark office. Once your home country approves your application, it will be sent to WIPO for examination.

If WIPO approves your application, it will then be sent to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) for final examination and registration. It’s worth noting that even if WIPO approves your application, CIPO may still reject it if it doesn’t meet Canadian trademark requirements.

Benefits of Using the Madrid System

Using the Madrid System offers several benefits for businesses looking to expand their brand internationally:

  • Cost savings: Filing one application through the Madrid System can be less expensive than filing separate applications in each country.
  • Time savings: The Madrid System can streamline the trademark registration process, allowing you to protect your brand in multiple countries more quickly.
  • Efficiency: The Madrid System can simplify the management of your trademark portfolio by allowing you to renew and manage multiple registrations through a single system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Canada is a member of the Madrid Protocol, which means that businesses can use this system to apply for trademark protection in Canada. By taking advantage of the benefits offered by the Madrid System, you can save time and money while protecting your brand internationally.