Trademarks Law in Singapore

30 May 2025 --
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Trademark law in Singapore is governed by the Trade Marks Act and administered by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS). Singapore's trademark system is designed to be user-friendly, efficient, and aligned with international standards.

🇸🇬 Trademark Registration Process in Singapore

1. Pre-Application Considerations

Before filing a trademark application, consider the following:

Distinctiveness: Ensure your trademark is distinctive and not merely descriptive of the goods or services.

Graphical Representation: The trademark must be capable of being represented graphically.

Similarity Search: Conduct a search to ensure your trademark does not conflict with existing registered marks. IPOS provides an online database for this purpose.

2. Filing the Application

Form TM4: Submit the application using Form TM4 through the IPOS Digital Hub.

Required Information:

Name and address of the applicant

A clear representation of the trademark

A list of goods and/or services, classified according to the Nice Classification

A declaration of the intention to use the trademark

Fees:

S$240 for online filing using pre-approved descriptions

S$341 for online filing using custom descriptions

S$374 for manual filing

3. Examination

IPOS will examine the application to ensure compliance with legal requirements. If the application meets the criteria, it will proceed to the publication stage. This process typically takes about 6–9 months.

4. Publication and Opposition

Publication: The application is published in the Trade Marks Journal for public inspection.

Opposition Period: There is a 2-month period during which third parties can file an opposition against the registration.

Outcome: If no opposition is filed, or if opposition is resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark proceeds to registration.

5. Registration and Certificate

Upon successful registration, IPOS will issue a Certificate of Registration. Trademark protection is granted for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.

💰 Costs and Fees

Application Fees:

S$240 for online filing using pre-approved descriptions

S$341 for online filing using custom descriptions

S$374 for manual filing

Renewal Fees: S$380 per class for online renewal.

Professional Fees: Fees for legal or agent services may vary.

🔄 Renewal and Non-Use

Renewal: Trademarks must be renewed every 10 years. Renewal applications can be filed 6 months before the expiration date, with a 6-month grace period available.

Use Requirement: A trademark must be used within 5 years of registration. Failure to use the trademark during this period may render it vulnerable to cancellation.

🌐 International Protection

Singapore is a member of the Madrid Protocol, allowing for international trademark protection. To extend protection to other member countries, file an international application through IPOS after registering the trademark in Singapore.