How Much Does a Trademark Cost in the EU: A Cost Overview

This article provides a detailed overview of official EUIPO fees, additional costs, and practical tips on how to save money without compromising the quality of the registration process.

Overview of EUIPO Official Fees

Base Application Costs

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) manages the registration of EU trademarks (EUTMs). Their pricing is transparent and based on the number of classes of goods or services you choose during your application.

Initial Fees

• €850 – covers 1 class
• +€50 – for the 2nd class
• +€150 – for each additional class from the third onward

For example, registering a mark under three classes would cost €1050 in total.

Renewal Fees

EU trademarks are valid for 10 years, after which they must be renewed:

• €850 – for 1 class
• +€50/€150 – per additional class (same as original structure)

Failing to renew a trademark on time can lead to its expiration and the loss of rights.

Optional EUIPO Services

Though not mandatory, EUIPO also offers:

• Certified copies of registration – €50
• Priority claim processing – free, but requires proper documentation

Additional Costs of Registration

Legal Assistance

Many businesses hire intellectual property attorneys or agents to help with:

• Choosing the right classes
• Drafting accurate descriptions
• Responding to EUIPO objections or oppositions

Legal services typically range from €300 to €1500, depending on the complexity of the case.

Trademark Clearance Search

Before filing, it’s wise to conduct a clearance search to ensure your trademark doesn’t conflict with existing ones. While EUIPO provides free databases, professional searches offer deeper insights and cost between €100 and €500.

Translation and Representation

If you're not fluent in the EUIPO’s working languages (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian), you may require:

• Translation of documents
• Representation by an EU-based attorney

These services can add €100 to €300 to the total cost.

Opposition and Legal Disputes

If someone opposes your application during the publication period, you may need to:

• Hire legal support
• Submit legal responses
• Possibly rebrand or reapply

This can significantly increase expenses—often by €1000 or more.

Cost-Saving Tips

Limit the Number of Classes

Each class adds to the EU trademark cost. Only choose classes that truly apply to your goods or services. A focused application is not only cheaper but less prone to conflict.

Use Free EUIPO Tools

Leverage tools like TMview or eSearch Plus to conduct preliminary searches. This reduces the need for early legal involvement and lowers the risk of conflict.

File Independently if Possible

For simple cases, small businesses can file directly through EUIPO’s online system. The portal provides clear guidance and examples, potentially saving legal fees.

Compare Attorney Packages

Some firms offer fixed-price trademark packages that include filing, monitoring, and responses. These often cost less than hourly billing and provide predictable expenses.

Choose a Distinctive Mark

Avoid generic names or logos, as they’re more likely to face objections. A unique and creative trademark increases the chance of approval and reduces the need for appeals.

Conclusion

Registering a trademark in the EU involves more than just paying a flat fee. While EUIPO's official fees start from €850, the total cost often includes legal advice, clearance searches, and possible responses to objections.

To avoid unexpected expenses, businesses should estimate their total budget, based on the number of classes, desired support, and potential complexity. Smart planning and selective use of services can result in a high-quality trademark registration at a reasonable cost.

If you're unsure where to start, consider consulting a trademark professional to help manage the process and ensure that your investment in brand protection pays off.