How to Register a Trademark in Finland: Comprehensive Guide for Applicants
Understanding Trademark Registration in Finland: Key Requirements, Procedures, and Costs
Trademark registration in Finland offers a streamlined and effective process for protecting brand identities. Managed by the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH), the system supports both local and international applicants. This article outlines the application requirements, the types of protectable marks, procedural details, costs, and post-registration steps for trademark registration in Finland.
Who Can Apply
- In Finland, trademark applications can be filed by both individuals and legal entities, including companies and associations. This inclusivity allows a diverse range of applicants to secure legal protection for their brands.
What Can Be Protected
A variety of marks can be registered as trademarks in Finland, provided they are distinctive:
- Words and logos
- Three-dimensional shapes
- Multimedia and moving marks
- Colors and position marks
- Sounds and names
- Product shapes or packaging
Marks must be clearly defined to ensure comprehension by the PRH and the public. Non-distinctive, descriptive, or misleading marks, as well as those that contravene public order or law, are not eligible for registration.
Application Requirements and Filing Options
- Applicants must submit a precise representation of the mark in the completed application form. Each application should pertain to one trademark only. Submissions are mainly electronic via the PRH online platform, with paper submissions accepted in exceptional scenarios.
- An optional preliminary examination by the PRH can help identify potential conflicts or registrability issues. This examination, taking about two to five working days, costs €210.80 for a comprehensive word-mark search in one class.
Fees and Timelines
- The cost for filing an electronic application starts at €240, with an additional €100 for each extra class. Paper filings incur a base fee of €290.
- Processing typically takes 1 - 2 months, with protection starting from the filing date upon approval. If issues arise, the PRH issues an office action, allowing a 2-month response period, with extensions possible.
Opposition and Post-Registration Proceedings
- Following registration, a 3-month opposition period allows third parties to challenge the registration. The PRH may uphold, partially revoke, or cancel the trademark based on the opposition, with decisions usually issued within 3- 4 months.
Conclusion
Finland’s trademark registration system is designed for transparency and efficiency, with user-friendly electronic filing and competitive costs. By securing protection from the filing date, businesses and individuals can confidently safeguard their intellectual property within a robust legal framework.