Registering a trademark with the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI) takes about 12–18 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. An expedited procedure can reduce the time to 6–9 months for an additional fee.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 3 months from the publication of the application in the Official Bulletin of Industrial Property (Buletinul Oficial de Proprietate Industrială).
In Moldova, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, sound marks, color marks, and holograms, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Moldova, 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/services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for the expedited procedure.
No, use is not mandatory, but non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per Article 22 of the Trademark Protection Law.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Moldova, with its strategic location and growing economy, presents a promising market for businesses seeking expansion. Registering your trademark in Moldova not only secures your brand identity but also provides exclusive rights, deters unauthorized use, and enhances your company's value.
Protection Against Unauthorized Use: A registered trademark grants you the exclusive right to use your brand, preventing others from copying or imitating it.
Legal Security: Registration provides a legal basis to enforce your rights against infringement or unfair competition.
Brand Value Enhancement: A registered trademark adds value to your business, making it more attractive to investors and partners.
Opportunities for Licensing and Franchising: With a registered trademark, you can license your brand or expand through franchising, opening new revenue streams.
Dispute Resolution Advantage: In case of legal disputes, a registered trademark serves as strong evidence of your rights.
Preliminary Search: Before filing, conduct a search to ensure your desired trademark isn't already registered. You can use the AGEPI's online database for this purpose.
Application Submission: Submit your application to the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI). The application must include:
Applicant's name and address
Clear representation of the trademark
List of goods and services classified according to the Nice Classification
Power of attorney if filed through a representative
Formal Examination: AGEPI reviews the application for compliance with formal requirements. If deficiencies are found, applicants have two months to address them.
Publication: If the application meets all requirements, it's published in the Official Bulletin of Industrial Property. This initiates a three-month period during which third parties can file oppositions.
Substantive Examination: AGEPI conducts a detailed examination to assess the trademark's distinctiveness and ensure it doesn't conflict with existing trademarks. This process typically takes six months.
Registration and Certificate Issuance: If no oppositions are filed or resolved in favor of the applicant, and all fees are paid, AGEPI registers the trademark and issues a certificate within two months.
Once registered, your trademark is entered into Moldova's National Register of Trademarks, providing public notice of your rights and serving as a reference for enforcement actions.
Navigating the trademark registration process can be complex. Common challenges include:
Incomplete or incorrect applications
Overlooking existing similar trademarks
Missing deadlines for responses or fee payments
Inadequate handling of oppositions or legal disputes
ProfitMark offers comprehensive support throughout the trademark registration process in Moldova:
Expert Guidance: Our team ensures your application meets all legal requirements.
Trademark Search: We conduct thorough searches to identify potential conflicts.
Document Preparation and Submission: We handle all paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Representation: We act on your behalf in dealings with AGEPI, eliminating the need for your physical presence.
Legal Support: In case of oppositions or disputes, our legal experts provide robust defense strategies.
Transparent Pricing: We offer clear, fixed pricing with no hidden costs.
Experience: Over 13 years in trademark registration across more than 30 countries.
International Expertise: A team of professionals well-versed in global trademark laws.
Client-Centric Approach: Tailored services to meet individual client needs.
Convenience: Fully online services for seamless and efficient processing.
Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable services.
Securing your brand through trademark registration in Moldova is a strategic move that offers legal protection and business advantages. With ProfitMark's expertise, the process becomes straightforward and efficient. Contact us today to safeguard your brand's future in Moldova's promising market.