Who Can Use Madrid Protocol?

By Anna Duncan

The Madrid Protocol is a treaty that allows businesses and individuals to register their trademarks in multiple countries using a single application. This streamlined process can save time and money, but not everyone is eligible to use it. In this article, we’ll explore who can use the Madrid Protocol and what the benefits are.

What is the Madrid Protocol?

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). It simplifies the process of registering trademarks in multiple countries by allowing applicants to file a single application with WIPO. The application can then be used to request protection in any of the 123 member countries.

Who can use the Madrid Protocol?

There are two main requirements for using the Madrid Protocol:

1. You must have a connection to a member country

To use the Madrid Protocol, you must have a “connection” to one of the member countries. This means that you must either:

  • Be a citizen or legal resident of a member country
  • Have a business or commercial establishment in a member country

If you meet this requirement, you can file an application for international trademark registration through your home country’s trademark office.

2. You must have an existing trademark application or registration

To use the Madrid Protocol, you must already have an existing trademark application or registration in your home country. This means that you cannot use the Madrid Protocol to apply for a brand new trademark.

Instead, you will need to file your international application within six months of filing your domestic application or registration. The international application will be based on your domestic application or registration, and it will cover all of the member countries that you select.

What are the benefits of using the Madrid Protocol?

Using the Madrid Protocol can provide several benefits for businesses and individuals:

  • Cost savings: Filing a single international application can be more cost-effective than filing separate applications in each country where you seek protection.
  • Time savings: The Madrid Protocol can save time by simplifying the application process and reducing the need for translations and other paperwork.
  • Flexibility: The Madrid Protocol allows you to add or remove member countries from your international registration as needed.
  • Consistency: Using the Madrid Protocol can help ensure that your trademark is protected consistently across all member countries, reducing the risk of infringement or confusion.

Conclusion

The Madrid Protocol is a valuable tool for businesses and individuals seeking to protect their trademarks internationally. To use the protocol, you must have a connection to a member country and an existing trademark application or registration. By taking advantage of this streamlined process, you can save time, money, and hassle while ensuring that your trademark is protected around the world.