France
Trademark Registration in France - Protect Your Brand Across the EU
Trademark matters in France are administered by the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). The authority is responsible for the filing, examination, publication, opposition, and registration of trademarks. The system follows a first-to-file principle and includes formal examination, with relative grounds typically assessed through opposition proceedings. As a member of the European Union, applicants may also obtain protection via the EU trademark system in addition to national registration.
Introduction
France is one of Europe’s largest economies, known for its strong industrial base, luxury goods sector, and global trade presence. As a key market within the European Union, it offers significant opportunities for brand growth across multiple industries. Securing trademark protection in France is essential for businesses aiming to establish and protect their brand in a competitive and highly developed market.
Why Trademark Registration in France Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout France.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) and relevant courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of France.
Regional Protection Advantage: As a member of the European Union, France 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 France
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in France
Filing
Trademark applications are filed with INPI, including applicant details, representation of the mark, and specification of goods/services under the Nice Classification.
Examination
INPI conducts formal examination; relative grounds are primarily assessed through opposition
Publication
Accepted applications are published in the Official Industrial Property Bulletin (BOPI).
Opposition Period
Third parties may file an opposition within 2 months from the date of publication.
Registration
If no opposition is filed, or if opposition proceedings are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark is registered and a certificate is issued.
Validity & Renewal
Trademarks are valid for 10 years from the date of registration and may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.
Governing Law
Trademark protection in France is governed by the French Intellectual Property Code and aligned with European Union trademark directives and regulations. The National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) is the competent authority responsible for trademark administration and registration.
Trademark Services Available in France
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership changes in the Farnce
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your France brand.
Documents for Filing
Trademark details and logo (if applicable)
Description of goods/services
Name and address of Applicant
Priority document (if priority is claimed)
| Service Description | Official Fee | Attorney Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trademark Search (Optional) | -- | -- | 0 |
| Registration (Filing to Registration) | -- | -- | 0 |
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Contact us for the latest details.
**Last updated on: March 17, 2026
Timeline
Approx. 4–6 months for registration in a straightforward case without objections.
Validity & Renewal
Trademarks are valid for 10 years from the date of registration and may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.
Need expert guidance for France trademark registration?
Book a 1:1 consultation with our trademark specialists.
Register early under the first-to-file system to prevent brand hijacking.
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