Trademark registration in Belarus. Belarus is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe. Belarus is a developing country ranking very high in the Human Development Index. It has been a member of the United Nations since its founding and a member of the CIS, the CSTO, the EAEU, and the Non-Aligned Movement. It has shown no aspirations for joining the European Union yet still maintains a bilateral relationship with the Union. Therefore, Belarus is a haven for businesses that want to expand their market here. To do that, understand the trademark registration procedures in Belarus and own a unique trademark in Belarus is the first key step when conducting business here.
To register a trademark in Belarus, you will need to prepare a trademark registration dossier. Here are the key components typically included in a trademark registration dossier for Belarus:
- Application Form: Begin by completing the trademark application form. The form will require details such as the applicant’s name, address, and contact information, as well as a clear representation of the trademark and a list of the goods and/or services associated with the mark.
- Power of Attorney: A signed and notarized power of attorney is usually required if you are using an agent or representative to file the trademark application on your behalf. The power of attorney authorizes the representative to act on your behalf during the trademark registration process.
- Trademark Specimen: Include a specimen or sample of the trademark. This can be a graphical representation or a stylized version of the mark, depending on the nature of your trademark.
- Priority Claim (if applicable): If you are claiming priority based on an earlier application filed in another country, you need to provide the details of the priority application, including the filing date, country, and application number.
- Goods and Services Classification: Identify the specific goods and/or services associated with your trademark. Classify them according to the International Classification of Goods and Services (Nice Classification). Each class has a corresponding list of goods and services, and you need to indicate the relevant classes for your trademark.
- Supporting Documents: Depending on the specific requirements in Belarus, you may need to provide additional supporting documents. These may include a certified copy of the company’s certificate of incorporation, a copy of the applicant’s passport or identity document (if an individual), or any other documents requested by the Belarusian Intellectual Property Office.
Once you have compiled the trademark registration dossier, you can submit it to the National Center of Intellectual Property (NCIP) in Belarus. The office will review your application, conduct an examination, and process your trademark registration. It’s advisable to consult with a local intellectual property attorney or a trademark agent in Belarus to ensure compliance with the specific requirements and regulations of the country.
Please note that the information provided is a general overview, and it is important to consult with a legal professional or intellectual property specialist in Belarus for specific guidance tailored to your situation.
You can find a list of Belarus IP firms here.