Registering a trademark with the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI) takes about 6–12 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases, such as those involving oppositions, may take up to 18 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 45 days from the publication of the application in the Dominican Republic Official Industrial Property Bulletin.
In the Dominican Republic, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, sound marks, and certification marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, religious values, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in the Dominican Republic, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $200–400 for one class of goods or services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
Use of the trademark is not mandatory, but non-use for 3 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per the Industrial Property Law.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the registration date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Registering a trademark in the Dominican Republic not only secures your brand's legal protection but also opens doors to new business opportunities in the Caribbean region.
The Dominican Republic presents a promising market for businesses aiming to expand in the Caribbean. Registering your trademark here offers several advantages:
Exclusive Rights: Gain the sole legal right to use your trademark within the country.
Protection Against Infringement: Prevent unauthorized use, counterfeiting, or imitation by competitors.
Brand Value Enhancement: A registered trademark adds intangible value to your company.
Licensing and Franchising Opportunities: Legally license or franchise your brand.
Legal Advantage in Disputes: Strengthen your position in legal conflicts over trademark rights.lawyerpuntacana.com
The Dominican Republic operates under a "first-to-file" system, meaning that the first person to register a trademark holds the rights to it. The registration process involves several key steps:Jump
Preliminary Search: Conduct a search through the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI) database to ensure your desired trademark isn't already registered.
Application Submission: File your application with ONAPI, including a clear representation of the trademark and a list of goods or services it will cover.
Examination: ONAPI reviews the application for compliance with legal requirements and assesses the distinctiveness of the trademark.
Publication: If approved, the application is published in the Official Bulletin, allowing third parties 45 days to file any oppositions.
Registration: If no oppositions are filed or if they are resolved in your favor, ONAPI issues a certificate of registration.mesalex.com+6The International Trade Council+6proxario.com+6
The entire process typically takes between 3 to 6 months, provided there are no objections or oppositions. The International Trade Council+1Liesegang & Partner+1
To register a trademark in the Dominican Republic, you'll need:
Applicant Information: Full name, address, and nationality.
Trademark Representation: A clear image or description of the trademark.
List of Goods/Services: Detailed list categorized according to the Nice Classification.
Power of Attorney: If filing through a representative, a notarized and apostilled power of attorney is required.
Priority Documents: If claiming priority from a foreign application, a certified copy of that application is necessary.
A registered trademark in the Dominican Republic is valid for 10 years from the date of registration. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Renewal applications should be filed within six months before the expiration date, although a six-month grace period is available with additional fees. Jumpmesalex.com
Navigating the trademark registration process can be complex, especially for foreign applicants. Professional assistance ensures accurate application preparation, adherence to legal requirements, and timely responses to any objections or oppositions.
ProfitMark offers comprehensive support throughout the trademark registration process:
Expert Consultation: Tailored advice based on your specific needs.
Preliminary Searches: Conduct thorough searches to assess trademark availability.
Application Preparation: Assist in compiling and submitting all necessary documents.
Legal Representation: Handle communications with ONAPI and respond to any legal challenges.
Transparent Pricing: Provide clear cost estimates with no hidden fees.innotec.ru+9The International Trade Council+9Jump+9
Experience: Over 13 years in the trademark registration industry.
Global Reach: Successful registrations in more than 30 countries.
Professional Team: A dedicated team of international experts.
Client-Centric Approach: Personalized service for each client.
Convenience: Fully online services, allowing you to manage everything remotely.
Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality services.
Securing your trademark in the Dominican Republic is a strategic move to protect your brand and expand your business horizons. With ProfitMark's expertise, the registration process becomes straightforward and reliable. Contact us today to safeguard your brand's future.