Vienna Classification

Classification of figurative elements of trade marks

Figurative elements of trade marks and purely figurative marks must be searchable, for example, to identify conflicting earlier trade marks.

The International Classification of the Figurative Elements of Marks under the Vienna Agreement - the 'Vienna Classification' - solves this problem. The short title refers to the town of Vienna where the decision to establish this classification was taken. For more details, for example on the countries using the classification, please see the text part of the classification.

Hierarchical structure

The 'Vienna Classification' constitutes a hierarchical system that proceeds from the general to the particular, dividing all figurative elements into categories, divisions and sections.

In some cases explanatory notes have been introduced. These explanatory notes concern either the entire classification or a certain category, division or section. The sections may contain additional auxiliary sections.
The sixth edition of the classification downloadable here in German comprises:

• 29 categories
• 144 divisions
• 788 main sections
• 879 auxiliary sections

• (1,6 MB) Wiener Klassifikation - Internationale Klassifikation der Bildbestandteile von Marken
  6th edition, in force since 1 January 2008
  No print edition available

More detailed information is available on the website of WIPO at
http://www.wipo.int/classifications/vienna/en/

© 2013 Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt | Last updated 13/05/13