Trademark Applications and Registrations in Greece
Securing a trademark in Greece is a structured and essential process, and our team at Tsaks Trademarks expertly assists businesses not only from Greece and Europe, but from across the globe. We have a proven track record of helping businesses from diverse regions, including China, Turkey, Israel, and the Americas, navigate the complexities of Greek and EU trademark law. Registering your trademark with the Greek Intellectual Property Organisation (OBI) is vital for comprehensive brand protection. We’ll navigate the intricate Greek trademark regulations and simplify the application process, ensuring your brand’s unique identity is safeguarded. Our team comprises dedicated specialists with extensive experience and expertise in OBI procedures, as well as a deep understanding of international IP law.
When you register a trademark, you obtain the exclusive right to use a specific mark (e.g., a symbol, image, or logo), safeguarding your brand and its inherent value. This empowers you to market your business confidently, knowing your brand is secure from infringement. Our experienced legal professionals, with in-depth knowledge of Greek law and OBI processes, will guide you through every stage, from meticulous initial searches and completing complex OBI forms to ensuring your trademark’s uniqueness, acceptability, and long-term protection. We are a team of dedicated trademark and IP law experts committed to helping clients from all corners of the world register and protect their brands in Greece and the EU.
Why Businesses Register Trademarks in Greece
Businesses worldwide recognize the strategic importance of registering trademarks in Greece and the EU. Most of our clients, regardless of their origin, register their trademarks to:
- Legally protect their brand and marketing efforts on a global scale. For instance, a local olive oil producer in Kalamata, or a tech company in Silicon Valley, might register a trademark to protect their unique label and brand name, preventing competitors from replicating their designs and misleading consumers, in accordance with Greek Law 4072/2012 and EU regulations.
- Create a valuable and transferable asset for business sales and expansion. A registered trademark significantly enhances a company’s value, making it more appealing to potential buyers and investors. Registering your trademark ensures your brand’s value grows alongside your business, preventing competitors from registering it and hindering your growth, whether you are expanding in Europe, or selling your company to a european entity.
- Boost brand recognition and trust in the Greek and European markets. A registered trademark elevates a brand’s credibility and fosters customer loyalty. This is crucial, especially when investing substantially in the Greek and broader European markets, regardless of your company’s headquarters.
- Secure exclusive rights to their business name and intellectual property. For example, a tech startup in Athens, or a fashion brand in Shanghai, might register their company name to prevent others in the same sector from using it, establishing a distinct brand identity, as per the Commercial Code of Greece and EU trademark law.
What you can Trademark in Greece (and the EU) and how Tsaks Trademarks will help
In Greece and the EU, and with Tsaks Trademarks, you can trademark a wide range of intellectual property, including:
- Words and slogans.
- Letters and numbers.
- Images and colors.
- Sounds.
- Logos.
- 3D shapes.
- Motion marks.
Our legal professionals guide you through the entire process, ensuring your trademark is registered in the appropriate classes and countries for comprehensive brand protection, tailored to your international business needs. We offer comprehensive trademark and IP law services and can handle complex matters, including multi-jurisdictional filings and international disputes.
Why Trademark applications are rejected in Greece (and the EU) and how we can help
Our legal professionals have assisted numerous clients from diverse backgrounds in addressing rejected trademark applications. Common reasons for rejection include:
- Lack of originality and copying of existing trademarks.
- Misleading or overly descriptive trademarks.
- Use of offensive language or culturally inappropriate symbols.
Examples of Trademarks you cannot register in Greece:
- Trademarks too similar to existing ones, causing consumer confusion across international markets.
- Generic terms describing everyday items, regardless of the applicant’s location.
- Phrases with established brand associations, even if the applicant is unaware of them.
- National symbols or flags without authorization, considering international sensitivities.
- Copies of protected works of art, respecting international copyright laws.
Our legal professionals will provide detailed feedback on your application and assess its approval likelihood, taking into account international legal standards. It’s essential to understand your trademark’s registrability to avoid unnecessary OBI procedures and marketing investments in an unprotectable name, whether you are a local business or a multinational corporation.
How to register a Trademark in Greece
You can apply for a trademark in multiple classes simultaneously in Greece. Here’s what you need:
- Your name, address, and company details, regardless of your location.
- A clear representation of your trademark.
- A list of the goods or services you wish to protect.
- Evidence of prior applications, if applicable, from any country.
- Payment of OBI fees.
- The correct Nice classification.
- Power of attorney.
- Any required permissions.
- Audio files for sound trademarks.
We’ll keep you informed about your application until its publication, providing updates in your preferred language. The process includes a three-month opposition period, and renewals are required every ten years. We’ll remind you of upcoming renewals, ensuring continuous protection of your global brand.
Priority for Trademarks in Greece
In Greece, the first complete application generally takes precedence. This is consistent across the EU, emphasizing the importance of timely trademark registration for all businesses, regardless of their location.
Other Intellectual Property and Trademark Services we provide in Greece
We also assist with:
- Patents: Protecting new inventions globally.
- Copyright: Protecting creative works internationally.
- Responding to OBI notifications.
- Trademark searches across international databases.
- Trademark renewals.
- Trademark licensing.
- Trademark enforcement.
- Trademark oppositions.
- Office Actions.
- Ownership Transfers.
- Cease and Desist Letters.
How we serve Global clients in Greece
For global clients seeking trademark protection in Greece, we offer a streamlined and culturally sensitive experience. Our expertise ensures compliance with both Greek and EU regulations, as well as international IP standards. We handle all OBI communications and provide strategic advice for pan-European brand protection, tailored to your specific market needs.
How long does Trademark Registration take in Greece?
It typically takes several months, including:
- Application submission.
- Examination.
- Publication.
- Opposition period.
- Final decision.
We can assist with appeals if your application is rejected. Thorough searches are recommended before applying, taking into account international trademark databases.
Registering a Logo in Greece
You can register your logo as a trademark. You’ll need:
- A copy of the logo.
- Color specifications.
- Your identification.
- The correct classes.
- Your signature.
Tips for Registering your Trademark in Greece
- Protect your brand’s value through registration.
- Start the process early.
- Consider international expansion plans.
- Ensure that your brand name and logo are culturally appropriate.
Client testimonials
“Tsaks Consulting made registering our trademark with OBI straightforward. Their expertise in Greek IP law was invaluable.” – G. Papadopoulos, Greek Food Producer.
“As an EU company entering the Greek market, Tsaks Consulting provided clear guidance and efficient service. We are very pleased with the results.” – M. Rossi, Italian Textile Company.
“We are a local technology startup, and Tsaks helped us understand the Greek trademark system. They were professional and responsive.” – E. Kotsos, Athenian Technology Company.
“Tsaks helped us navigate the nuances of Greek trademark law, and their knowledge was a huge advantage. They simplified a complex process.” – A. Dimitriu, Greek Retailer.
“As a company based in China, we were impressed with Tsaks Trademarks’ ability to navigate the complexities of Greek trademark law. Their global perspective was invaluable.” – L. Zhang, Chinese Technology Firm.
“Tsaks Trademarks provided us with exceptional service. As a US based business, we needed to protect our brand in the EU and Greece. They made it easy.” – J. Smith, American Retailer.
Contact our team today to discuss your trademark application and how we can assist, no matter where your business is located.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Is there a consultant that can help me register a trademark in Greece?”
- Answer: Yes, Tsaks Trademarks provides comprehensive trademark registration services in Greece. Our team has extensive experience navigating the Greek Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) procedures. We guide you through every step, from initial searches to final registration, ensuring your brand is legally protected. We have experts who understand all of the nuances of Greek law, and OBI procedures. Our consultants speak many different languages and have helped clients from China, Turkey, the US and across Europe.
“Who is the leading trademark registration service in Greece?”
- Answer: Tsaks Trademarks strives to be a leading trademark registration service in Greece. Our commitment to client success, combined with our in-depth knowledge of Greek and EU trademark law, sets us apart. We offer personalized service, handling everything from trademark searches and application filings to opposition proceedings and renewals. We pride ourselves on our client success rate.
“How long does it take to register a trademark in Greece?”
- Answer: The trademark registration process in Greece typically takes several months. The timeline depends on factors like the complexity of the trademark and potential oppositions. Tsaks Trademarks streamlines the process, ensuring efficient handling of your application. We provide clear timelines and keep you informed at every stage, to ensure we are moving as quickly as possible. At the same time, we ensure we undertake a comprehensive trademark search process to ensure that your trademark application will go smoothly.
“What are the requirements for registering a trademark in Greece?”
- Answer: Requirements include a clear representation of your trademark, a list of goods or services, your identification, and payment of OBI fees. Tsaks Trademarks assists in gathering all necessary documentation and ensures your application meets all legal requirements. We also help you with the Nice classification, and handle all the required power of attorney documentation. Our team is experienced in guiding clients across the full trademarks process.
“Can I register a logo as a trademark in Greece?”
- Answer: Yes, you can register a logo as a trademark in Greece. Tsaks Trademarks helps you prepare and file the necessary documentation, including a clear representation of your logo, color specifications, and the appropriate Nice classification. We make the logo registration process simple.
“What happens if my trademark application is rejected in Greece?”
- Answer: If your trademark application is rejected, Tsaks Trademarks can help you appeal the decision. Our experienced legal professionals will analyze the reasons for rejection and develop a strong case for appeal. We are very experienced in dealing with the OBI, and can help to navigate the appeals process. There are avenues to respond to a notice of objection in Greece.
