Trademark registration provides exclusive rights to use your brand or logo in connection with your products or services. South Africa is not a member of the Madrid Protocol, so all filings must be national.

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Trademark

1. Class Selection & Filing

Select the appropriate class(es) under the Nice Classification and file with the Trademark Office.

2. Examination (12–18 months)

The Trademark Office examines the mark for distinctiveness and any conflicts with existing trademarks.

3. Acceptance

Once the application is compliant, it is accepted and prepared for publication.

4. Publication

Published in the Patent Journal for 3 months. Third parties may oppose during this period.

5. Registration

If no opposition is filed or upheld, the mark proceeds to registration.

Key Trademark Timelines

Term: Valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely in 10-year increments.