EU Trademark Registration: Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses in 2025

Protecting your brand in the European Union can seem complicated, but EU trademark registration is one of the most effective ways to secure exclusive rights in all 27 EU Member States with a single application. In this guide, we explain how the process works, what it costs, and the benefits of applying.

What Is an EU Trademark?

An EU trademark (EUTM) is a single registration administered by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). Once granted, it gives your business protection across the entire EU market. Instead of filing separate applications in each country, you cover all 27 Member States with one registration.

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Why Register an EU Trademark?

Businesses choose EU trademark registration because it offers:

  • Wide coverage – protection in all EU countries with one application.

  • Cost efficiency – cheaper than filing 27 separate national trademarks.

  • Brand security – exclusive rights to use your trademark and prevent competitors from using confusingly similar marks.

  • Strong enforcement – the ability to act against infringements across the EU.

EU Trademark Registration Process

Step 1: Prepare your trademark

  • Decide on your word mark, logo, or both.

  • Make sure it’s distinctive and not descriptive.

Step 2: Select goods and services

  • Classify your products/services using the EU’s Nice Classification system.

  • Be precise – you cannot expand the list later.

Step 3: Search for earlier marks

  • Use the free TMview database to check if your trademark is already registered.

  • Avoid conflicts with identical or similar marks.

Step 4: File your application

  • Applications are filed online at EUIPO.

  • Fees start at €850 for one class, €50 for the second class, and €150 for each additional class.

Step 5: Examination and publication

  • EUIPO checks for absolute grounds (e.g., if your trademark is descriptive).

  • If accepted, your trademark is published for opposition (3 months).

Step 6: Registration

  • If no oppositions are filed, or if resolved in your favor, your trademark is registered and protected for 10 years.

How Long Does It Take?

Most EU trademark applications take 4–6 months if there are no oppositions. If another party challenges your application, the process may extend to 12–18 months.

Renewal and Duration

Your EU trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely for further 10-year periods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing a trademark that is too descriptive (e.g., “Best Olive Oil”).

  • Listing too many goods/services unnecessarily.

  • Skipping a preliminary search before applying.

Conclusion

EU trademark registration is the fastest and most cost-effective way to protect your brand across Europe. With one application, you gain exclusive rights in all 27 EU Member States – a major advantage for businesses planning to expand internationally.

If you’re ready to secure your brand, our team at MyTrademarkPartner can guide you through every step of the process.