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Trade Marks

Information about Trademark Modernisation Act

We report on first experiences with modernised trademark law.

As a rule, trade marks identify goods and services of an enterprise and are its intellectual property just like patents. Strong trade marks are assets. Above all, those signs can be protected as trade marks that are suitable for distinguishing goods an/or services of your enterprise from those of another enterprise.

Our website tells you everything you need to know as a trade mark applicant.

Browse through our site to learn more about what trade mark protection is, what data are required for it and when trade marks may be excluded from registration because of grounds for refusal. Read why you should absolutely perform a search about your intended trade mark and consult the classification of goods and services, before filing an application. You need to know: goods and/or services are divided into 45 classes. The fee you have to pay for your application depends on the number of classes indicated. The basic application fee for up to three classes is 300 euros for paper-based filing and 290 euros for online or electronic filing. Class fees of 100 euros ar due for each additional class.

Warning against Misleading Requests for Payment

The German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) warns against – partially misleading – offers, requests for payment and invoices relating to IP applications and renewal of IP rights from private companies unrelated to the DPMA.
The DPMA does not send any invoices or requests for payment for the application or renewal of IP rights.

Please read more on our website: Warning against Misleading Requests for Payment

We also explain to you what filing routes are available, why you need a list of goods and services for the application and how examination, registration and renewal are carried out by our office. Please note that we do not check whether there are registered trade marks similar or identical to your trade mark. Proprietors of earlier trade marks might file a notice of opposition after registration of your trade mark. Therefore, it is important that you carefully think through all your steps - also because you will not be able to change your application after filing. The data of your application will be published in DPMAregister, the electronic IP information system.

If you think about seeking protection for your trade mark abroad, we will also tell you what to do. Furthermore, we give you answers to frequently asked questions about trade marks.

Should you still have any questions, you may find it helpful to call our Customer Care and Services.

Last updated: 20 October 2020