Singapore Trademark Registration Process

1. Formal review: After the application is submitted, the application number and application time are given. At this stage, it is reviewed whether the application uses the prescribed forms and whether the categories of goods and services are specified. The examiner will search whether the trademark is identical in appearance and pronunciation with the prior trademark; in addition, the examiner will also examine whether the name of the goods and services is in accordance with the international classification. If the classification is wrong, a new application will be required.

2. Substantive examination: Examine whether the trademark is registrable according to the law, for example, whether it is distinctive. If the examiner considers that the trademark is not suitable for registration, a notice of rejection will be issued. Applicants can respond within the specified time. Applicants can also apply for a delay in responding. 3. Announcement: After the trademark passes the review, the applicant will be informed that the trademark application has been accepted and published in the trademark announcement. Anyone can raise objections, state reasons and submit relevant evidence within the four-month announcement period.

3. Registration approval: Trademarks that are found to be registrable after opposition, or trademarks that are announced as having no objections will be approved for registration and a registration certificate will be issued. The entire smooth application process (if there are no rejections, objections, etc.) takes about 6-10 months. A trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of application. The trademark can be renewed after 10 years of validity.