PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR MAKING A TRADEMARK APPLICATION.
When filing an application, the Applicant is required to submit:
- The duly filled original application form with an authorized signature
- If registering through a company, the company seal and director’s signature
- If registering through an agent, the agent’s seal and signature are required
- A copy of the duly filled original application form
- Clear representation of the mark (logo/word/device)
- 2 copies (on the application itself or on separate sheets)
- Maximum size: 10cm x 10cm
- If claiming colours, a coloured representation of the mark is required.
- Specification of Goods & services
- A Goods List in accordance with the international NICE Classification.
- Power of Attorney (if filed through an Agent)
- Must be duly signed and executed. (Notarization and legalization is not required)
- An original Sworn Translation of the mark
- Required if the mark contains words not in English, Sinhala or Tamil.
Filing the application at NIPO:
Step 01:
The duly completed application must be handed over to the officer at the information desk to be reviewed and signed. Provided the application is in order;
Step 02:
Collect a ‘Paying in Voucher’ near the payment counter.
Fill in the required details:
– Whom you are addressing to
– Head of receipts
– Date
– Name of Payee
– Amount
– Reason for payment
– Place your signature
Step 03:
Payment of fees
– Hand over the duly completed Paying in Voucher and the trademark application
– Pay the prescribed fees before 3.00pm (weekdays) at the counter.
– Obtain and retain the official receipt for your records.
What happens after filing the application?
Acknowledgement: NIPO will process your application.
Notification by post: You will be informed via registered post whether the application has been accepted, accepted with conditions or refused.
Defects: If there are any defects in the application, they will primarily inform you of such defects prior to giving notice of the acceptance/refusal of the mark.
Timeline: This stage typically takes approximately a year, and needs to followed-up regularly. For convenience purposes, many applicants prefer to hand this over to a registered Agent.
