Discover the risks and dangers of failing to register a trademark to understand the value and importance of trademark registration for your brand.
The Risks of Not Registering a Trademark
Switzerland Trademark Registration
Protect Your Brand in Switzerland Through a Simple Process Backed by Certified Local Attorneys
Simple steps to register your trademark
STEP 1
Comprehensive Trademark Study
Before filing your trademark in Switzerland, you must evaluate any issues that may arise during the registration process. Our Comprehensive Trademark Study not only lists similar trademarks (graphic and phonetic) that may conflict with yours but also provides you with an Attorney's opinion on the trademark registration possibilities and the class(es) that your goods/services belong to.
- Graphic and phonetic similarity trademark search report
- Trademark attorney's analysis and advice
- Trademark class recommendation
STEP 2
Trademark Application Filing
Specialized attorneys will file your trademark application in Switzerland and carry out all the necessary formalities to bring your application for approval and registration. As soon as your trademark is filed, we will send you a filing report that will include the application number and application date. Also, we will send you a scanned copy of the filed application.
- Process Handled by Experienced Trademark Attorneys
- Filing the Report & a Scanned Copy of the application
- Tracking the Registration Process Online
Additional Services in Switzerland
Discover how our services help protect and strengthen your brand in Switzerland.
Trademark Search
Check if your trademark is available for registration with our easy-to-use search tool.
Search TrademarkTrademark Renewal
Renew your trademark to maintain uninterrupted protection for your brand.
Renew TrademarkDomain Registration
Safeguard your local domain with ease through our trusted partner, Register.Domains.
Search .CH DomainsFrom our Blog
National vs. International Trademark Registration
Discover how national and international trademark registration compare, the pros and cons of each, and which is right for you.
Commonly Asked Questions About Trademark Registration
Learn answers to some of the most commonly asked questions on trademark registrations to improve your trademark knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical duration for trademark registration approval?
The typical time it takes to get a trademark registered is about 4 months, as long as there are no objections or challenges.
What is the duration of the opposition period?
The opposition period for national registration begins on the day the registration is made public. For international registration, it starts on the first day of the month following its publication in the WIPO Gazette.
Do I have to sign a Power of Attorney?
No, signing a power of attorney is not required. However, it is necessary if the applicant wishes to appoint a different attorney.
Can you claim priority for a trademark application in Switzerland?
Yes, you can claim priority in Switzerland. Here's how:
- Your home country must be part of the World Trade Organization or a signatory of the Paris Convention.
- You must file in Switzerland within 6 months of your home country's application date.
- Switzerland can serve as the basis for international registration.
What actions must I take to meet the usage requirements for my trademark?
For national registration:
- If there are no oppositions, you have five years from when the opposition period ends.
- If there are oppositions, you have five years from when the opposition process concludes.
For international registration:
- You have five years from the date the Swiss Trademark Office publishes the final protection grant.
The trademark must be used for selling or marketing. It should be used in Switzerland, but use in Germany is also acceptable under the Swiss-German treaty.
Does registering a trademark in Switzerland grant me any legal rights?
Yes, registering your trademark is essential to secure rights in Switzerland. The Swiss Trademark law follows a first-to-file principle, with some exceptions. Contact us for more information.
Can a registration be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel a registered mark in this jurisdiction for the following reasons:
- The mark goes against Switzerland's moral standards.
- The mark threatens or opposes public order.
- The mark includes a geographical indication.
- The mark is functional, misleading, descriptive, disparaging, deceptive, or lacks distinctiveness.
- The mark infringes on proprietary rights.
- There is a copyright infringement.
- There is a violation of rights related to a registered design, personal name, or company name.
- There is a violation of rights related to a well-known or famous mark.
- There is unauthorized use of specially protected flags, emblems, or armorial bearings.
What are the steps involved in the trademark application process in Switzerland after filing?
The trademark application process in Switzerland involves three main stages:
- Trademark and the goods/services it covers
- Applicant's name and address
- Application number and date
- Priority claim information
- Trademark representation
Is it necessary to use my trademark before applying for registration?
No, you don't need to use your trademark or plan to use it before applying for registration in this jurisdiction.
How long is a registered trademark valid for once it has been approved?
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years starting from the application date.
Who is eligible to challenge my trademark registration?
Individuals or businesses who have a similar trademark that was registered before yours.
What rights do you gain by registering a trademark?
Yes. In Switzerland, registering a trademark grants the owner several rights:
- Exclusive rights to use the trademark and earn profits from it
- Ability to oppose later conflicting trademark applications
- Option to request cancellation of conflicting trademark registrations
- Right to take legal action against others for trademark infringement
- Entitlement to receive damages for trademark infringement
- Right to request the seizure of counterfeit goods
- Ability to license the trademark to other businesses
If I register my trademark in Switzerland, will it be protected in other countries?
No, registering your trademark in Switzerland only protects it within Swiss borders.
Still have questions?