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Is there a time frame for the trademark registration approval?
The average time frame for the registration approval is 6 months, if no objections or oppositions arise.
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If I register my trademark in Belize, do I have protection in other territories?
No. The protection of a registered mark is limited only within the territories of Belize.
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Do I need to sign a Power of Attorney?
Yes. Applicants need to submit a signed Power of Attorney.
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Are there any benefits from a pre-filing use of the trademark?
There are minimal benefits from pre-filing use of a mark.
- Notorious trademarks that are not yet registered get protection from infringement.
- Unregistered marks but have been used substantially for a long time may also obtain protection against infringement.
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Will there be problems in case I don’t use my trademark after registration?
A trademark that remains unused 5 years after its registration can result to its removal from the registry office.
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What are the types of trademark that can be registered in Belize?
The trademark law of Belize accepts the following marks for registration:
- Words
- Slogans
- Names
- Devices
- Colours
- Three-dimensional shapes
- Trade dresses or get ups
- Notorious marks
- Certification marks
- Service marks
- Collective marks
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What are the phases of application after a trademark has been filed in Belize?
Trademark application in Belize goes through several phases, in particular order: examination in respect to requirements, publication of application details, and registration. All applications must be the criteria for a registrable trademark in Belize. Before the mark is officially registered, it will go through a publication process for the purpose of allowing third parties to oppose the registration.
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What type of trademark is not registerable?
The trademark law of Belize prohibits that following marks:
- Marks that contradict public policy or standards of moral
- Generic words/terms
- Marks that do not show distinctive qualities
- Marks that are mainly used as surnames
- Marks that are mainly used as a geographic name or indication
- National names, flags or symbols (including those of states, regions and international organizations)
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Does Belize use the "Nice Classification" system?
Yes. Belize trademark system uses the Nice Classification.
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Does the Community Trademark apply for Belize?
No. Since Belize is not a European Union member, the Community Trademark does not take effect in this country.
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Is there any possibility to claim priority in Belize?
Applicants may claim priority if the Paris Convention is effective in their home country and if the home application date is at least 6 months earlier than the application date in Belize.
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What do I need to do to satisfy the use requirement?
Use the trademark within 5 years from the date of registration. Minimal use is required and must occur in the jurisdiction of Belize.
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Once my trademark has been registered, for how many years will be valid?
Registered trademarks in Belize are initially valid for 10 years.
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What will be the renewal date of my trademark?
The first renewal date is counted 10 years from date of filing of application.
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Is it legal to use my trademark even if it is not yet registered?
Yes. It’s legal to use an unregistered mark for commercial purpose.