8 Steps to Successfully Register a Trademark in Singapore

The process of registering a trademark in Singapore can take from eight to twelve months. The length of time can vary depending on whether the registration encounters any difficulties. As an owner, you are entitled to file your trademark application yourself, but you can hire a professional firm that specializes in this procedure.

This will help to ensure that your application will not be rejected for an incorrect filing, and an experienced professional will know how to respond to any objections that might come up during the process. Take a look at the eight steps required to successfully register a trademark in Singapore.

Step One: Identify the Class of Goods or Services

The first step of the process is to choose the proper class of goods or services that you want to trademark. If you want more than one good or service, you will need to file more than one trademark. The International Classification of Goods and Services (ICGS) classifies goods and services from 1 to 45, and you will choose the classification that is most appropriate for your trademark.

Step Two: Search for Conflicts

When you file an application for a trademark, it includes a nonrefundable application fee. You should take this time to do your own search to make sure that the Singapore Registry of Trademarks does not already have an identical or similar trademark to the one you wish to register. If it is already registered, they will not issue it to you, so you need to make sure that you apply for a unique trademark.

Step Three: File the Application

Once you are sure that your trademark is not registered by another business, you can fill out the application. You will be able to fill out one trademark application per class, and each will come with an application fee. Make sure that you classify your goods and services accurately to prevent any delays.

Step Four: Check the Application for Completeness and Compliance

Once you file your application, the trademarks office will allocate a trademark application number to your file. They will also review the application to make sure that it is complete, accompanied by the application fee, and in compliance with the Trade Marks Act. They will notify you if you have any information missing or if there is any initial objection, and they will give you a period of time to correct any issues.

Step Five: Formal Search for Conflicting Marks

Once your application is complete and compliant, the registrar will initiate a formal search for conflicting trademarks and verify that you have chosen the correct classification for goods and services. If any objections or conflicts are found, they will reject your application, and you will be required to correct the problem and submit a new application. In such a situation, it’s advisable to seek legal advice from a Singapore trademark law specialist.

Step Six: Examination for Conflicts with Singapore Trademark Laws

If they find no conflicts in the previous step, they will conduct an examination to make sure that your trademark does not conflict with Singapore Trademark laws. There are laws that govern trademarks, such as the requirement that your goods or services are distinct and have their own character. If they find an objection, you will be given a specific amount of time to correct the problem.

Step Seven: Publishing for Public Objection

Once your trademark application reaches this step, you will be notified of the acceptance of your application. The application will be published in the Trade Marks Journal. Anyone can oppose the trademark for two months following the publication. It can be opposed for numerous reasons. If an objection is filed, they will notify you and allow you a specified amount of time to provide a counter-statement. They will hold a hearing and then let you know what the outcome is.

Step Eight: Your Trademark Is Registered

If all of the objections are resolved in your favor, they will issue you the registration certificate and your trademark will be registered.

Final Words

A trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of application, and it can be renewed for 10-year periods following. The process takes between eight and twelve months, and although you can do it yourself, it might be easier to work with a professional firm that has experience with the process.