Trademark Registration and Protection in Serbia

Trademark Registration and Protection in Serbia

In Serbia, the protection and registration of a trademark is governed by the Law on Trademarks and administered by the Intellectual Property Office of the Republic of Serbia (Zavod za intelektualnu svojinu).

Steps for Registering a Trademark in Serbia:

1. Prior Search: It is essential to check if the trademark you wish to register is not already protected. This search can be conducted in the trademark database of the Intellectual Property Office of Serbia (ZIS).
2. Filing the Application:
   • The application must be submitted to the Intellectual Property Office.
   • The submission should include:
     • The completed application form;
     • A clear representation of the logo or trademark;
     • The list of goods or services for which protection is sought (Nice Classification);
     • Payment of the registration fees.
3. Examination of the Application: The Office reviews the application to ensure it complies with all legal requirements. This includes both formal and substantive examination, such as verifying whether the logo or trademark meets distinctiveness criteria and does not infringe on existing rights.
4. Publication and Opposition: If the application is approved, the trademark is published in the Official Bulletin of the Office, allowing a period during which third parties can oppose the registration.
5. Registration: If no opposition is filed or if oppositions are rejected, the trademark is officially registered. A registration certificate is issued, granting protection for 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

Trademark Protection in Serbia: Once registered, the holder has the exclusive right to use the trademark in Serbia for the goods or services for which it was registered. The holder can also prevent third parties from using a similar mark that may cause confusion.