How trademark registration works

1. Search and clearance

Before filing, you should conduct a clearance search to identify identical or similar marks already registered. Patentir runs AI-powered conflict checks against live trademark databases before your application is submitted.

2. Filing

You submit your application to the relevant patent office — for example, EUIPO for EU protection, or PRV for Sweden. The application includes the mark itself, the goods and services it covers, and the applicant's details.

3. Formal examination

The office checks that your application meets formal requirements: correct format, valid payment, adequate description of goods and services.

4. Substantive examination

The office examines whether the mark is eligible for registration on absolute grounds — for example, it must be distinctive and not descriptive of the goods or services.

5. Publication and opposition

If no issues are found, the mark is published in the official gazette. Third parties have 3 months to file an opposition. If no opposition is filed (or all oppositions are resolved), the mark proceeds to registration.

6. Registration

The mark is formally registered. You receive a certificate of registration and the ® symbol may now be used. From this point, monitoring becomes essential to protect your rights.