Madrid Protocol welcomes Canada as amended Trademarks Act goes into effect

Canada’s amended Trademarks Act will come into force on June 17, 2019. The revised act introduces many changes to trademark law and practice including Canada’s accession to the Madrid Protocol, which will allow Canadians to file Madrid applications with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). In joining the Madrid Protocol, Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) will also accept and examine applications filed by foreign Madrid applicants seeking Canadian registration.

Additionally, the amended Trademarks Act brings into effect important changes to Canadian trademark applications and renewals:

  • Elimination of the need to specify basis for filing or declarations of use
  • Expanded “trademark” definition to include non-traditional marks
  • Implementation of Nice Classification system for all goods and services
  • Increased government filing fees, renewal fees, and introduction of additional “per class” fees
  • Shortened registration and renewal terms from 15 years to 10 years

Approach Canada’s changing trademark law with confidence

At CompuMark, we know these changes impact your trademark research and protection strategy. That’s why we’re making sure you get the coverage you need as Canada becomes an active participant in the Madrid Protocol system of international trademark registration.

As of June 17:

  • CompuMark full search reports with a CIPO component, including the Canada Full Search, will include Madrid Protocol information made available by CIPO, in Canadian records
  • Searches within SAEGIS® and TM go365™ will automatically include International Registrations claiming protection in Canada
  • Canada will be added to all regional Madrid packages
  • Watch services will include Canada under the Madrid Protocol and generate results under the International Register

We’re committed to providing you with the industry’s most comprehensive CIPO and Madrid Protocol information. Because we know you’d expect nothing less from the partner you trust.

Want more information? Please contact us.