Why Register A Trademark?
A trademark is a legal concept that refers to a symbol, word, phrase, or design that identifies and distinguishes a product or service from those offered by others. It is a powerful tool for businesses to protect their brand and reputation, and it is often considered one of the most valuable assets of a company.
You may register the following as a trademark: 
Source: IPOS
How Can InCorp Help You With the Trademark Registration Process?
Our team of experienced trademark professionals can guide you through the entire trademark global registration process, from conducting a comprehensive trademark search to filing your trademark application, managing the prosecution process, and maintaining your trademark registration.
The average time to process a trademark registration in Singapore is 12 months, and upon successful registration, your trademark is protected for ten years from the date of filing.
Source: IPOS
Global Trademark Registration: Madrid Filing vs. Direct Filing
At InCorp, we assist our clients with both the Madrid Filing and Direct Filing options. Learn the key differences and identify which option is most suitable for your business below.
| Madrid Filing* | Direct Filing |
|---|---|
| File a single application to cover multiple countries | File separate applications for each country |
| Based on an existing national or regional trademark application or registration | Does not require an existing national or regional trademark application or registration |
| Simplified and centralised process through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | Involves dealing with each country’s national trademark office |
| Can result in cost savings compared to filing separately in each country | Can provide greater flexibility and control over the filing process |
| Limited to countries that are members of the Madrid Protocol | Available to all countries, including non-Madrid Protocol countries |
| May have stricter examination and opposition procedures | Examination and opposition procedures may vary by country |
* Note that under the Madrid Protocol System, before filing an international application, you must have first registered the trademark or filed an application domestically in the country of origin. A country of origin is a country that is a member of the Madrid Protocol where the applicant (person or entity filing the application) is a resident or national of or has a real and effective industrial or commercial establishment.
Secure Your Trademark Globally Without Any Hassle!
Quotation for any trademark filing across the world will be shared within 24-48 hours
Completion of filing of a Trademark or Document Drafting within a week’s time*
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FAQs on Trademark Global Registration
What is the Madrid System for trademark global registration?
- The Madrid System provides a centralized and streamlined process for registering trademarks in multiple countries. It is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and currently includes over 130 member countries. This means that businesses can use the Madrid System to register their trademarks in multiple countries at once, rather than having to go through the individual registration processes for each country.
- No, you cannot file a Madrid Protocol application directly with WIPO. You must first apply in your home country or region and then use that application as the basis for your international application.
In order to be successfully registered, trademarks under the Madrid Protocol must meet formal requirements such as:
- Having enough contact details
- Assigning a minimum of 1 Madrid System member
- Satisfies the quality of images
- Make the required fee payments
- It typically takes about 12 months for trademark registration in Singapore under the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).
