The Madrid System is a convenient and cost-effective solution for registering and managing trademarks

worldwide. File a single application and pay one set of fees to apply for protection in up to 124
countries. Modify, renew or expand your global trademark portfolio through one centralized system.

 The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty designed to simplify the international trademark
registration process. Using this process, registrants are able to complete a single application, in
their home language, that can then be applied to over 90 member countries. It is important to
note, however, that this application will not grant global trademark protections. While the
Madrid Protocol simplifies the application process, it has nothing to do with approvals. Those
are still made on a country-by-country basis.
 In order to submit an international application through the Madrid Protocol, you must first file a
basic application with your home country’s trademark office. If you live within the U.S., this
would be the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO. You do not need to wait
until your application is approved by the USPTO. Once you file your basic application, you are
free to begin the process of international registration.
 The most obvious advantage of using the Madrid Protocol is a simplified application process.
Completing one application in your home language is much easier than submitting an
application with each individual country, especially if you plan to register in many countries at
one time. The Madrid Protocol often saves registrants money as well. Though you will still need
to pay a fee to each country where your trademark is ultimately registered, you will only pay
one application fee. In a basic filing, with few complications at the national level, this could
greatly reduce the overall cost of your international filing.

 Using the Madrid Protocol, your international application will also be filed through your
country’s trademark office. They will then certify your application and forward it to the World
Intellectual Property Organization. WIPO will then review the application and send it to the
trademark offices in the countries you’ve indicated on the application.

 Again, the Madrid Protocol will not grant your trademark in every country for which you’ve
applied. Each individual trademark office will examine your application and make a decision
based on their specific trademark legislation. You should be notified by each trademark office
within 12-18 months regarding approval or rejection. Once approved, you will need to renew
your trademark registration every 10 years.