Rwanda
Trademark Registration in Rwanda - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademarks in Rwanda are administered by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) through its Intellectual Property Department. Rwanda is a member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). It conducts a formal and substantive examination is primarily focused on absolute grounds and formal conflicts; detailed relative grounds examination is limited.
Why Trademark Registration in the Rwanda Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Rwanda.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Rwandan courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across all regions of Rwanda, regardless of where the business operates.
Market Positioning: Strengthens brand identity, builds consumer trust, and enhances competitive advantage in Rwanda’s growing market.
How the Rwanda Trademark Registration Works
The Rwanda trademark registration system follows a structured sequence of reviews, publications, and legal checks. These steps ensure that trademarks meet all statutory requirements and remain protected over time.
Filing
The trademark application is filed with the RDB – IP Unit and upon submission, the application is assigned an official filing date and application number.
Examination
The RDB conducts formal and substantive examination, and if objections arise, an Office Action is issued, and the applicant must respond within the prescribed time.
Acceptance & Publication
If the application passes examination, it is accepted and published in the Official Gazette of Rwanda for public notice.
Opposition Period
Following publication, third parties may file an opposition within 60 days from the publication date. If no opposition is filed, or the opposition is unsuccessful, the application proceeds to registration
Registration
Once all requirements are met, RDB issues the Trademark Registration Certificate, granting exclusive trademark rights in Rwanda.
Validity & Renewal
A registered trademark in Rwanda is valid for 10 years from the filing date. The registration may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods upon payment of renewal fees. Renewal applications should be filed before expiry or within the prescribed grace period with surcharge.
Trademark Services Available in Rwanda
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for conflicts.
Trademark Registration Services
Full filing and application management.
Trademark Renewal Services
Complete filing and application management with Rwanda
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Rwanda trademarks to spot potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership
Requirements for Filing
Applicant's legal name and address.
Clear Representation of the mark
Description of goods/services
Passport Copy of the Applicant/ Authorised signatory
Copy of CR/Incorporation Certificate.
Priority claim (if applicable) with proof
Power of Attorney if filed through agent
The fees listed above are indicative and may not reflect the most current charges. Please contact us to obtain the latest and accurate fee information.
**Last updated on: March 17, 2026
Timeline
Approx. 6-12 months from filing to registration in a straightforward case with no objection or opposition
Validity & Renewal
A registered trademark in Rwanda is valid for 10 years from the filing date. The registration may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods upon payment of renewal fees. Renewal applications should be filed before expiry or within the prescribed grace period with surcharge
Frequently Ask Questions
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Get A QuoteQ1: Are well-known trademarks protected in Rwanda?
Yes. Well-known marks are protected, even without registration, subject to proof.
Q2: Can trademarks be assigned or licensed?
Q3: Can trademarks be registered in languages other than English?
Q4: Can Rwanda trademarks support regional expansion?
Q5: Does Rwanda examine marks for public interest concerns?
Q6: Is evidence of use required for renewal?
Q7: Can a trademark registration be amended after filing?
Q8: Does Rwanda recognise trademark dilution?
Q9: Can trademark rights be suspended?
Q10: Can trademarks be challenged after registration?
Need expert guidance for Rwanda 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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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.
