Trademark Registration in Japan

Japan is a member of the Madrid Protocol. Applications can be filed through the Madrid Protocol or directly through a local attorney. The trademark goes through a two-stage examination process. The first examination is carried out within 1 month. If there are no similar trademarks and no obstacle to registration, the trademark is examined in full in the 2nd stage. It is then published for 2 months. A simply signed power of attorney is required. A representation of the trademark and a list of the requested goods and services in Japanese must be submitted. If priority is claimed, the priority document must be submitted within 3 months of the filing date. A multi-class system is used, and the Nice Classification applies. The term of protection for a trademark is 10 years. By renewing it every 10 years, the trademark can be used indefinitely. After passing the formal examination, the trademark is published in the official bulletin for 2 months, during which third parties may file an opposition. There is a 3-year use requirement. If the trademark is not used for 3 years, third parties may file an action for its cancellation. Renewal is required every 10 years.