Trademark Registration in Italy

Italy is a member of the Madrid Protocol. Applications can be filed through the Madrid Protocol or directly through a local attorney. Registration of a trademark can take up to 18 months. A simply signed power of attorney is required. A printed representation of the selected trademark measuring 7 x 7 cm is required. If priority is claimed, an English translation and a certified copy of the priority application are required. A multi-class system and the Nice Classification are used. The term of protection for a trademark is 10 years. If renewed every 10 years, the trademark can be used indefinitely. After examination, the trademark is published in the official bulletin for 3 months, during which third parties may file an opposition. Third parties may file an action to have a trademark cancelled if it has not been used for 5 years from the registration date or from its last use. The trademark must be renewed every 10 years.