Bulgaria
Trademark Registration in Bulgaria - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Bulgaria, a country located in Southeast Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, is a member of the European Union and a strategic gateway to both European and Eurasian markets. With a population of approximately 6.5 million and a well-developed economy, Bulgaria is a critically important jurisdiction for brand owners seeking to protect their intellectual property in the region.
Introduction
Bulgaria's legal system is rooted in civil law, reflecting its European legal traditions. Bulgarian is the official language of government, commerce, and the judiciary, and all trademark proceedings are conducted in Bulgarian.
The country has a modern and fully harmonised intellectual property framework aligned with European Union standards. Bulgaria's trademark laws are codified in the Law on Trademarks and Geographical Indications (ZMGO), which was promulgated in State Gazette No. 98/2019 and entered into force on 17 December 2019, replacing the previous 1999 law. Trademark registration is essential for any business operating in or exporting to Bulgaria.
Why Trademark Registration is Important in Bulgaria?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Bulgaria.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Bulgarian Patent Office and relevant courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of Bulgaria.
Regional Protection Advantage: As a member of the European Union, Bulgaria allows access to EU-wide trademark protection through the EU Trademark (EUTM) system, covering all EU member states under a single registration.
Trademark Registration Procedure in Bulgaria
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Bulgaria
Preliminary Search (Recommended)
While not mandatory, conducting a trademark search through the BPO Online database is strongly recommended before filing. The BPO provides the "BPO ONLINE" search tool for national trademarks and applications, offering search options by applicant/holder name, Nice classes, Vienna codes (for figurative marks), application date, registration date, application number, registration number, and trademark denomination. A thorough search helps identify potential conflicts and is a critical pre-filing analysis.
Filing
The application is submitted to the Patent Office of the Republic of Bulgaria (BPO) online through the BPO Portal, in person, or by mail. Upon filing, the applicant receives a filing receipt with an application number and filing date. Multi-class applications are permitted.
Examination
Publication and Opposition
If the application successfully passes examination (or any objections are overcome), the trademark is published in the Official Bulletin of the Patent Office of the Republic of Bulgaria. Third parties may file oppositions within three months from publication. Observations on absolute grounds may also be submitted.
Registration Certificate
Following the publication and opposition period, if no opposition is filed or any opposition is resolved in the applicant's favour, the trademark proceeds to registration. The grant fee must be paid within one month from the registration. Upon payment, a registration certificate is issued.
Trademark Services Available in Bulgaria
Free Trademark Search
Initial screening to check availability
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for conflicts.
Trademark Registration Services
Full filing and application management.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to keep your protection active.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Smooth handling of trademark ownership changes.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Guidance to monetize and expand your brand.
Documents for Filing
Power of Attorney
Simply signed (no notarisation or legalisation required). A Power of Attorney form, signed and stamped (if applicable), must be submitted within one month from notification.
Applicant's Details
Specimen of the Mark
List of Goods/Services
Priority Document
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Contact us for the latest details.
**Last updated on: March 17, 2026
Timeline
Total filing to registration is approximately 12 to 36 months.
Validity & Renewal
Timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the application, any office actions, oppositions filed, and administrative delays at the BPO.
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