Cabo Verde
Trademark Registration in Cabo Verde- Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Cabo Verde, an island nation located off the northwest coast of Africa, is an emerging jurisdiction for businesses seeking to expand into West African markets. With a stable political environment and a growing services-driven economy, the country presents increasing opportunities for brand owners to establish and protect their trademarks.
Introduction
The legal system of Cabo Verde is based on civil law traditions, heavily influenced by Portuguese legislation. Portuguese is the official language, and all trademark-related proceedings are conducted accordingly.
Trademark protection in Cabo Verde is governed by a modern Industrial Property Code, which aligns with international standards and provides a structured framework for the registration and enforcement of intellectual property rights. The country is also a member of the Madrid System, allowing international applicants to designate Cabo Verde through a single application.
Why Trademark Registration in the Cabo Verde Is Important?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Cabo Verde.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Institute for Quality Management and Intellectual Property (IGQPI) and Cabo Verdean courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across all islands of Cabo Verde.
Market Positioning: Strengthens brand identity, builds consumer trust, and enhances competitive advantage in Cabo Verde’s growing, tourism-driven market.
Trademark Registration Procedure in Cabo Verde
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Cabo Verde
Filing
The application is filed with the IGQPI, either directly or through a local agent. Upon submission, an application number and filing date are issued.
Examination
The authority examines whether all required documents and formalities have been properly completed. The application is reviewed to assess distinctiveness and to identify any conflicts with prior registered or pending trademarks.
Publication
If the application meets all formal and substantive requirements, the trademark is published in the Official Gazette, making it enforceable against third parties.
Registration Certificate
If no opposition is filed, or if opposition is resolved in favour of the applicant, the trademark proceeds to registration and a certificate is issued.
Opposition
Cabo Verde provides a formal opposition procedure. Third parties may file objections against a trademark application within 2 months from the date of its publication in the Official Industrial Property Bulletin. If no opposition is filed within this period, or if any opposition is rejected, the application proceeds to registration.
Validity & Renewal
A trademark registration in Cabo Verde is valid for an initial period of 10 years from the date of application (filing date). The registration may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods, upon payment of the prescribed renewal fees. The rights conferred by the trademark take effect from the filing date, not the date of registration.
Governing Law
Legal Framework
Trademark protection in the Cabo Verde is governed by Industrial Property Code (Decree-Law No. 4/2007, as amended)
This legislation provides comprehensive protection for trademarks, service marks, and other industrial property rights, and is broadly aligned with international IP standards.
Competent Authority
Instituto de Gestão da Qualidade e da Propriedade Intelectual (IGQPI)
The IGQPI is responsible for the administration of industrial property rights in Cabo Verde, including the examination, registration, publication, and maintenance of trademarks.
Cabo Verde is also a member of the Madrid System, enabling applicants to designate the country through an international trademark application, in addition to filing directly at the national level.
Trademark Services Available in Cabo Verde
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in Cabo Verde.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for Cabo Verde trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your Cabo Verde trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Cabo Verde trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in Cabo Verde.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your Cabo Verde brand.
Documents for Filing
Power of Attorney
Simply signed; notarisation or legalisation is generally not required. A scanned copy is typically sufficient.
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
Approximately 6–12 months, assuming no objections or oppositions
Validity & Renewal
A trademark registration in Cabo Verde is valid for an initial period of 10 years from the date of application (filing date).
Need expert guidance for Cabo Verde trademark registration?
Book a 1:1 consultation with our trademark specialists.
Register early under the first-to-file system to prevent brand hijacking.
Insights on Cabo Verde IP Protection
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Ready To Protect Your Brand
Don’t leave your intellectual property unprotected. With LP GLOBAL, trademark registration becomes clear, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, our expert team ensures your brand is safeguarded every step of the way.
