Enregistrer Une Marque Internationale Template for France

The initial international registration through INPI typically takes 12-18 months from filing to completion. WIPO reviews the application within 12 months, then individual designated countries have 12-18 months to examine and potentially refuse protection. The entire process across all designated countries can take 2-3 years depending on local examination procedures.

Your French base trademark serves as the foundation for international registration, but each designated country grants independent protection under local laws. The Madrid Protocol registration creates legally binding trademark rights in each accepting country. However, if your French base mark is cancelled within 5 years, it can affect your international registrations through 'central attack'.

INPI will issue an irregularity notice giving you 3 months to correct deficiencies in your international application. If not corrected within this timeframe, your application will be deemed withdrawn and fees forfeited. Common issues include incorrect classification, insufficient French base mark details, or missing designated country fees that must be resolved promptly.

Yes, you must have either a French national trademark or European Union trademark designating France as your 'base mark' to use the Madrid Protocol system through INPI. The base mark must be identical to your international application in terms of owner, goods/services, and trademark representation. You cannot file internationally without this prerequisite French or EU registration.

The Madrid Protocol offers more flexibility and is preferred for French applicants, allowing designation of Protocol-only countries like the US and Japan. The older Madrid Arrangement requires all designated countries to be Arrangement members, limiting options. Most French businesses use the Protocol system as it covers more countries and allows subsequent designations after initial filing.

International trademark registration costs include WIPO basic fees (653 Swiss francs for black/white marks), individual designation fees varying by country (typically 100-1,500 CHF each), plus INPI transmission fees. Total costs range from 1,500-10,000 euros depending on number of countries and classes selected. Additional local attorney fees may apply in designated countries.

Yes, you can file subsequent designations to add new countries to your existing international registration at any time. These must be submitted through INPI as your office of origin, with additional designation fees paid to WIPO. Each new country designation follows the same examination process as the original application, with 12-18 month examination periods.