Effective Trademark Registration in Switzerland

Switzerland is famous for its beautiful landscapes and efficient systems. This feature also extends to its trademark registration process. If you want to protect your brand in this country, read the article below to understand the basics.

The Language Factor

When registering a trademark in Switzerland, you should use one of the country's three official languages. At Bonamark, we file applications in Italian. This means that all communications from the IGE (the Switzerland Trademark office) will be in this language.

Key Points:

• Official Languages: German, French, Italian
• Application Language: Italian (for our clients)

Standard Goods and Services: Trademark Classification

When registering a trademark, it's important to prepare a list of goods and services that meet local requirements. Many local attorneys don't bother to prepare a list of acceptable goods. Unlike them, Bonamark takes the extra step to use standard goods and services.

Benefits of Our Approach:

• Fewer Objections: We help you avoid common issues & objections.
• Expedited Process: This often accelerates the registration timeline without additional fees.
• Better Client Experience: You get your trademark registered faster.

The Trademark Registration Process

The trademark registration process in Switzerland involves 3 key stages:

1. Application: We help you prepare everything required to apply for a trademark.
2. Examination: The Trademark Office examines the application. They will cehck that it is not descriptive, offensive, or otherwise unregistrable.
   • 99% of trademarks we file pass this phase without any issues thanks to prior work.
3. Registration: Once approved, the trademark is published, allowing others to file oppositions.

Handling Trademark Oppositions

Overcoming oppositions can be complex and sometimes costly. It's important to note that only about 1% of cases encounter significant issues. In such cases, Bonamark will be able to defend the mark.

Prices of Trademark Application In Switzerland

Our pricing covers up to three classes of goods and services. You won't have to pay additional costs for up to 3 classes.

Final Steps and Renewal

Once your mark is registered, you will receive a digital trademark registration certificate plus a registration number. Trademarks in Switzerland must be renewed every ten years from the date of registration.

Time to Registration Overview

• Standard Registration Process: Up to 6 months
• Expedited Process: Approximately 4 weeks

Unique Features of the Swiss Trademark System

If your trademark receives an objection due to being descriptive, you can replace or add a logo to your trademark. The Swiss trademark office allows you to change your mark without losing the paid fees (but you lose your initial filing date).