Introduction

Trademarks are fundamental assets for companies seeking to expand internationally. Russia sits on the Eurasian land bridge and is a key node in China’s Belt and Road initiative; consequently, its trademark renewal system directly influences brand strategy in the region. This guide synthesizes provisions from Russian intellectual property law and practice to explain how to maintain trademark rights in Russia. It emphasizes the renewal timeline, use requirements and practical steps so that businesses can manage their portfolios effectively.

1 Duration of protection and non‑use

Russia uses a registration based system: a trademark’s exclusive right lasts ten years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely. Both government and practitioner sources confirm that the right holder may renew the mark within the last year of its ten-year term and that each renewal extends protection for another decade. For example, a mark registered on 15 March 2020 remains valid through 14 March 2030; if renewed in time, it will be valid until 14 March 2040.

The law does not require a “declaration of use” at renewal, but it penalizes abandonment. The Civil Code obliges the trademark owner to use the mark; if a mark is not used for three consecutive years, any interested party may seek its cancellation. Practitioners therefore advise keeping evidence of use—such as product packaging, advertising contracts or customs declarations—to defend against non‑use actions.

2 Renewal window (“6 + 6” rule)

Russian law follows a “6 + 6” renewal framework:

1.Regular renewal period. The right holder should file the renewal application within the last year of the ten-year term. Submitting within this period ensures continuous protection.

2.Grace period. If the owner misses the regular window, the law grants a six-month grace period after expiration. During this grace period the owner may still request renewal by paying an additional fee. For example, a mark expiring on 14 March 2030 may be renewed any time between 15 March 2029 and 14 March 2030; if missed, it can still be renewed up to 14 September 2030, provided the surcharge is paid.

Failure to renew within both periods causes the registration to lapse. An article from a leading Russian firm explains that, after missing the deadline, the owner has six months to act by filing a motion for extension and paying the additional fee. Once the grace period passes, the right generally cannot be restored, and the mark becomes available to third parties.

3 Consequences of late renewal and restoration possibilities

Russian practice provides only limited remedies for missed renewals. The Civil Code allows renewal applications during the six month grace period with payment of a surcharge. Some commentaries suggest that, under exceptional circumstances (e.g., natural disasters or other force majeure), the IP officemay reinstate a lapsed registration if the owner files a restoration request promptly; however, such requests are discretionary and must be filed shortly after the cause ceases. Because restoration is uncertain, businesses should treat the six-month grace period as the final opportunity to maintain the mark.

4 Fees and payment methods

Official renewal fees consist of a state duty plus surcharges for additional classes. Russian IP ‑service firms quote renewal costs around RUB 20 000 (about USD 295) for a trademark covering several classes. Additional classes attract extra charges, and renewal during the grace period requires an additional fee. Fees must be paid after Rospatent issues a payment request and can be settled by bank transfer or online. When using an attorney, businesses should budget for professional service fees on top of the official duty.

5 Renewal during changes of ownership or details

If a trademark is subject to assignment or a change in the right holder’s name/address, renewal should not be delayed. Practitioners advise filing the renewal in the name of the current registered owner, even if transfer documents have been submitted but not yet recorded. Once the assignment or name change is recorded, Rospatent will link the renewed registration to the new owner. Delaying renewal until after recordal risks missing the renewal window and jeopardizing the mark.

6 Portfolio management and digital tools

Companies with large portfolios should implement systems to monitor deadlines. Modern IP ‑management platforms (for example, Kangxin IP’s brand management module) can automatically track trademark expiry dates, send alerts six months before renewal deadlines and consolidate documents such as certificates and use evidence. These systems support collaboration among legal departments, agents and overseas affiliates, helping prevent accidental lapses.

Conclusion

Trademark renewal in Russia operates under a straightforward ten-year term with unlimited renewals, but strict adherence to deadlines is essential. Businesses should file renewal applications during the last year of validity and, if necessary, use the six-month grace period with the required surcharge. Because non‑use for three consecutive years can lead to cancellation, rights holders must maintain evidence of use. Timely renewals, prompt recordal of ownership changes and adoption of digital management tools can help companies safeguard their brand rights in Russia’s evolving marketplace.