Why applicants choose the Madrid System
Compared with filing a separate trademark application in every country, the Madrid System has a few clear benefits:
- One application for many countries: A single application, with one description, one language and one currency, lets you seek registration in several countries at once. Filing country by country means preparing a separate application for each.
- Simpler power of attorney: Only the power of attorney rules of your home country apply. If you file separately, you must satisfy the specific requirements of every country, which can be expensive and slow.
- Potential savings: When you want protection in many countries (more than five), the Madrid System may cost less in fees.
Points to keep in mind
The system also comes with a few limitations:
- You need a link to the home country, such as your nationality, your domicile, or a business incorporated there.
- For five years from the international filing date, the international trademark depends on the home country trademark. If the home country trademark is rejected, removed, canceled, or limited during that time, the international trademark is canceled as well.