--- title: "FAQs | Trademark Registration Questions Answered | GTC" description: "Answers to 35+ FAQs about trademark registration: costs, timelines, international filing, Nice classification, and how Global Trademark Company works." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "name": "Global Trademark Company LLC", "url": "https://globaltrademarkcompany.com", "logo": "https://globaltrademarkcompany.com/gtc-logo.svg", "description": "Multi-practice IP and business legal firm. Trademarks in 100+ jurisdictions, patents in 10 + PCT, copyrights under Berne. Operating since 2016.", "foundingDate": "2016", "sameAs": [ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/globaltrademarkcompany/", "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/globaltrademark.co" ], "contactPoint": [ { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+1-510-973-4964", "contactType": "customer service", "areaServed": "US", "availableLanguage": [ "English" ] }, { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+44-7453-347853", "contactType": "customer service", "areaServed": "GB", "availableLanguage": [ "English" ] }, { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+91-6397-329955", "contactType": "customer service", "areaServed": "IN", "availableLanguage": [ "English", "Hindi" ] } ], "address": [ { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "712 H Street NE, Suite 2094", "addressLocality": "Washington", "addressRegion": "DC", "postalCode": "20002", "addressCountry": "US" }, { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "YSC Complex, 4th floor, A-400, 12 Ajit Singh House, Sri Aurobindo Marg", "addressLocality": "New Delhi", "addressRegion": "Delhi", "postalCode": "110016", "addressCountry": "IN" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "dateModified": "2026-05-30", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a trademark?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes your goods or services from competitors'. Defined under 15 U.S.C. §1127 (the Lanham Act). Registering it gives you enforceable, nationwide rights to that brand." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need to register my trademark?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While you gain some common-law rights by using a mark, federal registration provides much stronger protection, including nationwide priority, the right to use the ® symbol, legal presumption of ownership, and the ability to stop infringing imports at customs." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long does trademark registration take?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Timelines vary by jurisdiction. US: 8–12 months. EU: 4–6 months. UK: 4–6 months. India: 12–24 months. China: 9–14 months. Canada: 24–30 months. These are averages for straightforward applications without objections." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the difference between ™ and ®?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The ™ symbol can be used with any unregistered trademark to indicate a claim of rights. The ® symbol may only be used after your mark is officially registered with the relevant trademark office. Using ® without a registration can result in penalties." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I trademark a name, logo, or slogan?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. You can register word marks (names, slogans), design marks (logos), and combined marks (name + logo together). Word marks offer the broadest protection for the name itself, while design marks protect the specific visual design." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Should I trademark my business name or logo first?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "If you can only file one, start with a word mark (your business name). Word marks provide broader protection because they cover the name in any font, color, or style. A logo (design mark) only protects the specific visual design as filed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What makes a strong trademark?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The strongest trademarks are fanciful (invented words like 'Kodak'), arbitrary (real words used in unrelated contexts like 'Apple' for computers), or suggestive. Descriptive marks are weak and hard to register. Generic terms cannot be trademarked." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does trademark registration cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Costs vary by jurisdiction. US: $200 service fee + $350/class USPTO government fee. EU: from $300 + EUIPO fees. UK: from $350 + UKIPO fees. Visit our pricing page for detailed breakdowns. Multi-country discounts of 10% apply when filing in 2+ jurisdictions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are government fees included in your pricing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Government fees are separate from our service fees and are clearly itemized at checkout. Government fees are paid directly to the trademark office (USPTO, EUIPO, etc.) and vary by jurisdiction and number of classes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you offer multi-country discounts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. When you file in 2 or more countries in a single order, you automatically receive a 10% discount on our service fees. The more jurisdictions you protect, the more you save. Government fees remain unchanged." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What payment methods do you accept?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, wire/bank transfer, and Payoneer. A 5% bank processing fee applies to wire transfers. Payments are processed securely." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is there a money-back guarantee?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "If we haven't yet filed your application, you can request a full refund. Once a filing has been submitted to a trademark office, government fees are non-refundable. Our service fee may be partially refundable depending on the work completed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why do some countries cost more than others?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Costs vary due to different government fee structures, local attorney requirements (many countries require a local agent for foreign applicants), translation needs, and complexity of the examination process. Countries with mandatory local representation tend to cost more." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens after I submit my order?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Our trademark specialists review your submission within 1–2 business days. We verify your mark details, select the optimal Nice classes, prepare the application, and file it with the relevant trademark office. You receive a filing confirmation with your application/serial number." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is an office action?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "An office action is an official communication from the trademark examiner raising issues with your application. Common reasons include likelihood of confusion with an existing mark, descriptiveness, and specimen deficiencies. Our US filing service includes handling non-substantive office actions; substantive responses start from $150." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a Nice classification?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The Nice Classification is an international system maintained by WIPO that organizes goods and services into 45 classes: 1–34 for goods, 35–45 for services. You must file in the correct class(es) for your mark to be protected." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long does a trademark last?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In most jurisdictions, a trademark registration lasts 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely for additional 10-year periods. In the US, you must also file declarations of continued use (Section 8) between the 5th and 6th year after registration." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a Statement of Use (SOU)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In the US, if you filed based on 'intent to use' (Section 1b), you must file a Statement of Use demonstrating actual use of the mark in commerce before the USPTO will issue the registration. You have 6 months to file, with extensions available." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is an opposition?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A trademark opposition is a legal proceeding where a third party challenges your application during the publication period, claiming your mark conflicts with their existing rights. In the US, this is handled by the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a specimen?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A specimen is evidence showing how your trademark is actually used in commerce. The USPTO requires a specimen with every application filed based on use in commerce (Section 1a) and with every Statement of Use (Section 1b). It must show the mark as consumers encounter it, not a mock-up." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Should I file in my personal name or my business name?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "File in the name of the entity that owns and controls the use of the mark. If you operate as a sole proprietor, file in your personal name. If you have an LLC or corporation, file under that entity. Filing under the wrong owner can create legal issues later." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I file in multiple countries at once?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Our platform supports filing in 100+ jurisdictions. You can select multiple countries during the order process and receive a bundled quote with a 10% multi-country discount on service fees." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need a local attorney for each country?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Many jurisdictions require foreign applicants to appoint a local representative. Our global network of associates handles this. It's included in our service fee. You don't need to find attorneys yourself." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which countries should I file in first?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Start with countries where you currently sell or plan to sell. Also consider 'first-to-file' countries like China where trademark squatting is common. The US, EU, UK, and China are common starting points for international brands." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is my US trademark valid in other countries?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. Trademark rights are territorial. A US registration only protects your mark in the United States. For international protection, you need separate registrations in each country or region." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the difference between first-to-file and first-to-use?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In first-to-file countries (China, EU, Japan, Korea), rights are awarded to whoever files the application first. In first-to-use countries (US, Canada, Australia), prior commercial use can establish rights. Most of the world follows the first-to-file system." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How does the Madrid Protocol compare to direct filing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The Madrid Protocol allows extending your home registration to multiple countries through a single WIPO application. Direct filing means filing separately with each country. Direct filings are independent and generally more robust; Madrid designations are linked to your home registration for the first 5 years." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I track my application?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "After placing your order, log in to your client dashboard to track every application in real-time. You'll see current status, upcoming deadlines, documents, prosecution history, and automated email notifications at every stage." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What if I need help choosing the right service?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Book a free consultation with one of our trademark experts. We'll review your situation, recommend the best filing strategy, and answer any questions, no commitment required." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I manage multiple trademarks in one account?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Your dashboard provides a full portfolio view of all your trademarks across every jurisdiction. You can manage renewals, deadlines, documents, and prosecution events for your entire trademark portfolio from one account." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you offer services for law firms and agencies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Our GTC B2B program offers white-label services, volume discounts, dedicated account management, and API integration for law firms, agencies, and corporate IP departments managing multiple client portfolios." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I contact support?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You can reach us via email at hello@globaltrademarkcompany.com, through the contact form on our website, or by booking a free consultation. We typically respond within one business day." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I file in a language other than English?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Our platform and forms are in English, but we file applications in the required local language for each jurisdiction. Our local associates handle all translation as part of the service. You don't need to translate anything yourself." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://globaltrademarkcompany.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Resources", "item": "https://globaltrademarkcompany.com/how-it-works" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "FAQs", "item": "https://globaltrademarkcompany.com/faq" } ] } ] --- [](/) - Trademarks - Patents - Copyrights - Data Privacy - Business Legal - [Pricing](/pricing) - Resources Sign inEN · USD Sign in 1. [Home](/) 2. [Resources](/how-it-works) 3. FAQs # Frequently asked questions Everything you need to know about trademark registration, from costs and timelines to international strategy and the filing process. Can't find your answer? [Book a free consultation](/free-consultation). Last updated: May 2026 Getting started (7)Costs & pricing (6)Filing process (8)International filing (6)Using GTC (6) ### What is a trademark? ### Do I need to register my trademark? ### How long does trademark registration take? ### What's the difference between ™ and ®? ### Can I trademark a name, logo, or slogan? ### Should I trademark my business name or logo first? ### What makes a strong trademark? ## Explore More Resources [ ### How It Works 6-step trademark registration process Read more about how it works ](/how-it-works)[ ### Specimen Guide USPTO specimen requirements & examples Read more about specimen guide ](/resources/specimen-guide)[ ### Country Guides Compare 9 key jurisdictions Read more about country guides ](/resources/country-guides)[ ### Trademark Glossary 75+ trademark terms defined Read more about trademark glossary ](/resources/glossary) ## Still have questions? Our trademark experts are happy to help. Book a free consultation or contact us directly. [Book Free Consultation](/free-consultation)[Contact Us](/contact) ## Site footer ![Global Trademark Company](/assets/gtc-logo-white-DQ8YcvVd.svg) Secure Every Step of Your Growth Trusted by brands since 2016 [hello@globaltrademarkcompany.com ](mailto:hello@globaltrademarkcompany.com) [](https://www.linkedin.com/company/globaltrademarkcompany/) [+1 510-973-4964 (US & International) ](tel:+15109734964)[+44 7453 347853 (UK & EU) ](tel:+447453347853)[+91 6397-329955 (India) ](tel:+916397329955) ### Company - [About us](/about) - [Contact](/contact) - [Our lawyers](/lawyers) - [Case studies](/case-studies) - [Careers](/careers) - [Press](/press) - [B2B partners](/b2b-partners) - [GTC Advantage](/gtc-advantage) ### Services - [All services →](/services) - [US trademark](/services/us-trademark) - [Madrid Protocol](/services/madrid-protocol-filing) - [Patent filing](/services/patent-filing) - [Copyright registration](/services/copyright-registration) - [Commercial contracts](/services/nda-drafting) - [Fractional GC](/services/fractional-gc) - [Data privacy](/services/gdpr-compliance) ### Resources - [Blog](/blog) - [Trademark Glossary](/resources/glossary) - [Country Guides](/resources/country-guides) - [Specimen Guide](/resources/specimen-guide) - [Class Assist](/class-assist) - [Free TM Check](/free-trademark-check) - [Free Consultation](/free-consultation) - [Reviews on Trustpilot](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/globaltrademark.co) ### Get Started - [Login](/login) - [Sign up](/signup) - [Application status](/application-status) - [Terms of service](/terms) - [Privacy policy](/privacy) - [Refund & credit policy](/refund-policy) - [Sitemap](/sitemap) ### Our Offices United States 712 H Street NE, Suite 2094 Washington DC 20002 India 4th Floor, A-400, 12 Ajit Singh House Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110016 European Union Iskar 75 Str., office 2 Sofia, Bulgaria China 2nd floor No. 51 Zhongshan Yi Road Guangzhou, China United Kingdom Unit 1A, 1 Bridge Road Camberley, Surrey GU15 2QR We accept: ![Visa](/assets/visa-logo-DngOCJX3.webp) ![Apple Pay](data:image/webp;base64,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) Stripe Payoneer Wire [Trustpilot](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/globaltrademark.co) © 2026 Global Trademark Company LLC. 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