Trademark Registration in Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Process

Securing a trademark in Bangladesh is a structured process that ensures your brand’s protection. Here’s a concise overview of the key steps:

• Pre-Step: Conduct a Search (Timeline: 2-20 working days), Official Cost: $27

• Stage 1: Filing the Application (Timeline: 1-2 working days), Official Cost: $61

• Stage 1A: Examination (Timeline: 3-6 Months), Official Cost: no cost if no objections.

• Stage 2: Publication (Timeline: 2-5 Months), Official Cost: $37

• Stage 2A: Opposition (Timeline: 2 Months), Official Cost: no cost if no opposition.

• Stage 3: Registration (Timeline: 1-4 Months), Official Cost: $243

• Post-Registration: Renewal (Timeline: 3-6 Months), Official Cost: $243

STAGE 1: FILING A TRADEMARK APPLICATION in Bangladesh

Who Can Apply? 

Individuals or companies, including foreign applicants (who must appoint a local agent).

Types of Applications in Bangladesh: 

(a) Ordinary Trademark Application – Filed to protect a mark in Bangladesh only.

(b) Convention Priority Application – Filed under the Paris Convention, allowing an applicant to claim priority based on an earlier application in another member country (must be filed within 6 months of the original filing).

Requirements:

• Name, address, and nationality of the applicant (individual or company).
• If the applicant is a company, it's the country of incorporation.
• Trademark Name/Logo – A clear representation of the mark (if a logo, submit in JPEG format).
• Class of Goods/Services – Bangladesh follows the Nice Classification (NCL, 12th edition).
• Description of Goods/Services – A detailed list of items covered under the trademark.
• Priority Application Number and Date – If claiming priority under the Paris Convention, the application must be filed within 6 months of the priority date.
• Certified Copy of Priority Application – Required if priority is claimed.
• POA is required if the application is filed through an authorized agent or law firm. Must be duly signed by the applicant (notarization is not mandatory).
• If the mark contains non-English words, A certified English translation is needed.

STAGE 1A: EXAMINATION

(Timeline: 3-6 Months), Official Cost: No cost if there are no objections.

The Registrar examines the application for distinctiveness, potential conflicts, and deceptiveness. If objections arise, an official report is issued within 6 months to 2 years. Applicants must respond within 60 days. If accepted, the mark proceeds to publication.

STAGE 2: PUBLICATION

(Timeline: 2-5 Months), Official Cost: $37

If the examination is a success, the applicant must pay the publication fee. Accepted applications will be published in the Trademarks Journal to invite public opposition.

STAGE 2A: OPPOSITION

(Timeline: 2 Months), Official Cost: No cost if there is no opposition.

Any party can oppose the trademark within 2 months (extendable to 5 months) of publication. If no opposition arises or it’s resolved in the applicant’s favor, the mark moves to registration.

STAGE 3: REGISTRATION

(Timeline: 1-4 Months), Official Cost: $243

Once registered, the trademark is valid for 7 years from the filing or priority date and can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year terms.

POST-REGISTRATION: RENEWAL

(Timeline: 3-6 Months), Official Cost: $243

After the initial 7 years, renewals ensure ongoing protection for 10-year periods, safeguarding your brand’s exclusivity. Learn More...

By following these steps, businesses can effectively secure and maintain trademark rights in Bangladesh. For detailed guidance, consult a local IP professional.

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