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.
On this page
France trademark registration at a glance
- Classification
- Nice Classification, 45 classes
- Madrid Protocol
- Yes, member since 1997
- Language
- French
- Opposition period
- 2 months from publication
- Typical timeline
- 5 to 6 months without objections
- Validity
- 10 years, renewable
* Timelines assume no objections or oppositions. Laws change, so contact us to confirm current requirements.
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 register your trademark in France
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.
Our trademark services in France
End-to-end support from our licensed in-country attorneys, from the first search to lifelong protection.
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in France.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for France trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your France trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of France trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in France.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your France brand.
Trademark registration process in France
Here is how to register a trademark in France, step by step.
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.
Start your application in a few minutes. Nothing is filed until you approve the written quote.
Documents required for trademark registration in France
Trademark details and logo (if applicable)
Description of goods/services
Name and address of Applicant
Priority document (if priority is claimed)
Timeline, validity and renewal
How long registration takes
Approx. 4–6 months for registration in a straightforward case without objections.
Validity and 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.
Client stories
Businesses that trust us with their brands across borders.
We had an excellent experience working with Legacy Partners for trademark registration and brand protection services in India. Their expert team guided us throughout the filing process, ensuring accurate documentation, timely updates, and seamless support. Their professionalism and intellectual property expertise gave us confidence in protecting our brand identity while supporting our expansion into new markets.
We had a seamless experience working with Legacy Partners for trademark registration services in Bahrain. Their professional team provided excellent support throughout the trademark filing process, ensuring timely updates, accurate documentation, and smooth coordination. Their expertise in intellectual property and brand protection services helped us secure our brand identity with confidence.
* Client stories are shared with permission.
Trademark registration in nearby countries
We cover 190+ countries and regional offices. See every country we cover.
Register your trademark in France today
Speak to our trademark consultants in France. Send your mark and we will reply with a free search and a fixed written quote within one working day.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Official requirements and fees can change; we confirm the current position for your matter before filing.
