What a trademark is
A trademark is a designation that makes it possible to distinguish the goods or services of one company from those of others. It can be a brand name, a logo, a slogan, or a combination of these.
Registration grants the exclusive right to use the mark. No one else may use the same or a similar designation for similar goods and services.
Important: Without registration, you will not be able to protect your brand from copying or recover compensation from infringers.
Step 1: Distinctiveness check
Before filing an application, make sure your trademark is distinctive and does not infringe the rights of third parties.
- Free search — you can check the open registers on the FIPS website
- Paid search — a full search, including pending applications
- Through a specialist — a professional trademark search with an expert opinion
Step 2: Determining the Nice classes (MKTU)
A trademark is registered for specific classes of goods and services under the International Classification (MKTU). There are 45 classes in total: 34 for goods and 11 for services.
Popular classes:
- Class 25 — clothing, footwear
- Class 35 — advertising, retail
- Class 42 — IT services, software development
- Class 43 — food service
Step 3: Preparing the application
The application includes:
- A request in the prescribed form
- An image of the trademark
- A description of the designation
- A list of goods and services by Nice class (MKTU)
- Proof of payment of the official fee
Step 4: Filing the application
- Electronically — via Gosuslugi or the FIPS personal account
- In person — at the Rospatent intake window
- By post — by registered mail
Step 5: Examination
Formal examination (1-2 months) — a check of the documents and fees.
Substantive examination (6-12 months) — a check for compliance with the requirements.
Step 6: Obtaining the certificate
After a successful examination, pay the registration fee. The certificate is issued in electronic form.
Timeframes and cost
Standard timeframe: 12-18 months. Expedited procedure: from 2 months.
State fees for electronic filing: 25 000 - 35 000 ₽ depending on the classes.
Recommendation: Without experience, it is better to turn to specialists — this reduces the risk of refusal.