How Much Does It Cost to Trademark Internationally?

Expanding your business across borders? Then protecting your brand in multiple countries isn’t just smart -- it’s essential. One of the first questions global business owners ask is: How much does it cost to trademark internationally?

The answer depends on several factors, including where you're filing, how many countries you want coverage in, and which method of registration you choose. Below, we break down the key pathways, cost ranges, and strategic considerations to help you plan ahead.

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Two Ways to File an International Trademark

When it comes to international brand protection, there are two main filing methods:

1. The Madrid System (Madrid Protocol)

The Madrid Protocol, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), lets you file a single international application to request trademark protection in up to 130+ participating countries.

This route is ideal if:

• You're targeting multiple markets
• You already have a U.S. (or other “home”) trademark application or registration
• You want a streamlined, centralized process with lower upfront legal costs
  

2. Direct National Filing

This involves filing separate applications in each country where you want protection. It’s more complex and costly, but may be required if:

• The country is not a member of the Madrid Protocol (e.g., some Middle Eastern or South American countries)
• You want greater flexibility or customized legal representation in specific jurisdictions

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Cost of Filing Through the Madrid System

Filing an international trademark through WIPO involves three main types of fees:

_{CHF = Swiss Franc; 1 CHF ≈ 1.1 USD (exchange rates may vary)}

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Example: Filing in 5 countries for a 3-class trademark could cost around 1,153 CHF (~$1,250 USD). But if some of those countries charge individual fees, the total may be significantly higher. You can use WIPO’s Madrid Fee Calculator for accurate estimates based on your needs.

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Cost of Direct National Filings

If you're filing directly with each country’s trademark office, your total costs will depend on government fees, local legal fees, and translation or administrative costs.

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Here’s a sample range by region:

Filing in multiple countries individually can quickly add up, making the Madrid Protocol more cost-efficient in many cases.

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Ongoing Costs: Renewals and Maintenance

International trademarks don’t last forever: you’ll need to renew them, usually every 10 years.

• Madrid System: Renewals involve a basic fee (currently 653 CHF) plus any individual or complementary fees for the countries covered.
• Direct Filing: Each country sets its own renewal schedule and cost, typically ranging from $300 to $1,000+ per country.
  

Missing a renewal deadline can lead to loss of protection, so it’s crucial to monitor all timelines.

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Strategic Tips to Save on International Trademark Costs

1. Start with priority markets: Focus first on countries where you’re actively selling or planning to launch.
2. Use Madrid when possible: If your target countries are Madrid Protocol members, you’ll likely save on fees and reduce paperwork.
3. Plan for class efficiency: Carefully group goods/services into the fewest number of classes to avoid extra fees.
4. Consider consulting a trademark attorney: They can help you weigh Madrid vs. direct filing, avoid refusals, and maximize protection.

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Final Take: Is International Trademark Protection Worth the Cost?

For most global brands, the answer is yes. Trademarking internationally is an investment in long-term brand equity, enforcement rights, and market credibility. While costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per country, the cost of not filing can be far greater. Whether you’re expanding into two countries or twenty, understanding your international trademark costs up front can help you scale smart and protect what you’ve built.

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Need help navigating global trademark protection? MarqVision makes international brand enforcement seamless, leveraging AI and global legal expertise to help you register and defend your trademarks across borders.

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