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Is there a time frame for the trademark registration approval?
The average time frame for the registration approval is 18 months, if no objections or oppositions arise.
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If I register my trademark in Cyprus, do I have protection in other territories?
Registered trademarks in Cyprus are protected in the whole island of Cyprus except in Northern Cyprus.
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Do I need to sign a Power of Attorney?
A signed Power of Attorney must be presented.
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Are there any benefits from a pre-filing use of the trademark?
Yes. Applicants may benefit from pre-filing use of trademark in the following ways:
- Demonstrate the mark’s distinctiveness
- Overcome opposition based on non-distinctiveness
- The first party to use the mark gets ownership right even if the mark was later registered by another party (substantial evidence is needed)
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Will there be problems in case I don’t use my trademark after registration?
Yes. Non-use is a ground for cancellation of registration.
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What are the types of trademark that can be registered in Cyprus?
The following marks are registrable in Cyprus:
- Words
- Colours
- Names
- Trade dress/get-up
- Devices
- Shapes with 3 dimensions
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What are the phases of application after a trademark has been filed in Cyprus?
There are 3 phases of trademark application in Cyprus namely examination, publication and registration.
- The application will be examined in respect of compliance with requirements.
- The particulars of the application will be published such as mark, name, citizenship and address of applicant, and all other details.
- Registration will be granted once requirements are met and oppositions are overcome.
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What type of trademark is not registrable?
Applicants are prohibited to register marks that are:
- Contrary to moral standards
- A threat to public order
- Generic
- Inclusive of name and flag or symbol or any state/region/nation or international organization
- Lacking in distinctive qualities
- Considered as surnames
- Considered as geographical names
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Does Cyprus use the "Nice Classification" system?
Yes. Cyprus uses the Nice Classification system.
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Does the Community Trademark apply for Cyprus?
Yes. The Community Trademark applies for Cyprus.
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Is there any possibility to claim priority in Cyprus?
Yes. Applicants may claim priority if:
- Home country is a Paris Convention member
- Date of home application was filed within 6 months prior to application in Cyprus
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What do I need to do to satisfy the use requirement?
Use the trademark 5 years from the date the application was filed. Use can be minimal but must take place within the jurisdiction of Cyprus.
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Once my trademark has been registered, for how many years will be valid?
Initial term of validity is 7 years beginning on the date of application.
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What will be the renewal date of my trademark?
The first renewal date will be 7 years from the date when application was filed.
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Is it legal to use my trademark even if it is not yet registered?
Yes. Unregistered marks can be legally used for goods and services.