Under the Nice Classification System, goods and services are grouped into classes, and a trademark can be registered in one class or in several.
Single-class vs. multi-class filing
Not every country handles this the same way. Some accept only one class per application, while others let you cover several classes in a single filing. Multi-class applications are therefore not available everywhere.
Separate applications, one per class
- Each class is examined on its own, so an objection or opposition against one class does not affect the others.
- The number of classes you file in does not change the chances of registration for any individual application.
- The downside is cost: several applications usually add up to a higher total.
One multi-class application (where permitted)
- It is generally the more economical option.
- The trade-off is risk. If an objection or opposition arises in one class, the entire application can be affected.
- The more classes you include, the greater the exposure, and the higher the likelihood of running into an objection or opposition.
Certificates
The Trademarks Office issues one certificate per application, not one per class.