Hague System enables single application for industrial design protection in 77 countries. System established in 1925, governed by 1960 Hague Act and 1999 Geneva Act. Applicants must be residents, nationals, or business owners of contracting parties
Madrid System enables single application for trade mark protection in multiple countries. International Registrations are administered centrally through WIPO in Switzerland. System includes Benelux, EU, and African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI)
WIPO's tool for tracking international trademark applications and developments. Enables email alerts for trademark updates
Determine the type of IP protection needed before filing. Check if your invention is patentable and eligible for protection. Conduct thorough public disclosure search, including foreign patents
Madrid Protocol enables trademark protection in over 123 countries through central filing. Protocol has 107 members, including EU and OAPI, covering 80% of world trade. Single application in English and Swiss Francs required for multiple countries
Wordmarks offer broadest protection and are rarely changed. Logos are recommended for weak marks like descriptive ones. Combined marks work well in many countries but require frequent use