The answer to the question of how long it takes to register a trademark shows why you’ll want to get started as soon as possible. Every case differs, depending on any number of issues – whether you file “in use” or “intent to use,” whether any oppositions arise, whether the government gazette needs to issue any Office Actions regarding your application, and so on – but in general, you’ll want to budget a year (at a bare minimum) to get your application approved and be assured of the benefits of trademark protection.

Before we move on, though, a quick note on the importance of when you initiate the process – how to file your trademark application. Regardless of when your trademark is actually approved – when the process ends – upon approval, you’re entitled to protection retroactive to the initial date of filing. That’s an important part of establishing priority of usage if any disputes should arise during or after your trademark application period. Let’s take a look at some of the steps that comprise that time frame below for easy reference.