Trademark Registration in Ghana: Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademark registration in Ghana at a glance: typically 12 to 24 months without objections; valid for 10 years, renewable; Madrid Protocol: Yes, member since 2008; opposition period: 2 months from publication.
Trademark protection in Ghana is administered by the Registrar-General’s Department (RGD)under the Office of the President. Ghana is a member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the Paris Convention. The RGD conducts formal and substantive examination, including examination for conflicts with earlier registered trademarks.
On this page
Ghana trademark registration at a glance
- Classification
- Nice Classification, 45 classes
- Madrid Protocol
- Yes, member since 2008
- Language
- English
- Opposition period
- 2 months from publication
- Typical timeline
- 12 to 24 months without objections
- Validity
- 10 years, renewable
* Timelines assume no objections or oppositions. Laws change, so contact us to confirm current requirements.
Why register your trademark in Ghana
Exclusive Rights
Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Ghana.
Legal Enforcement
Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Registrar General’s Department and Ghanaian courts.
Nationwide Protection
Secures trademark protection across all regions of Ghana, regardless of where the business operates.
Market Positioning
Strengthens brand identity, builds consumer trust, and enhances competitive advantage in Ghana’s growing market.
Our trademark services in Ghana
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 Ghana.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for Ghana trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your Ghana trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Ghana trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in Ghana.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your Ghana brand.
Trademark registration process in Ghana
Here is how to register a trademark in Ghana, step by step.
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Ghana.
Filing
Trademark applications are filed with the Registrar-General’s Department (RGD) and an application number and filing date are issued upon submission.
Examination
RGD conducts formal and substantive examination. If objections arise, an Examination Report is issued and must be responded to within the prescribed timeframe.
Acceptance & Publication
If the application meets all legal requirements, it is accepted and published in the Trademarks Journal of Ghana.
Opposition Period
Following publication, third parties may file an opposition within 2 months from the publication date. Opposition proceedings are handled by the Registrar-Genera
Registration
If no opposition is filed, or if opposition proceedings are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark is entered in the register and a Certificate of Registration is issued.
Validity & Renewal
A Ghana trademark is valid for 10 years from the filing date. Renewable indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Renewal must be filed before expiry or within the statutory grace period with surcharge.
Start your application in a few minutes. Nothing is filed until you approve the written quote.
Documents required for trademark registration in Ghana
Applicant’s 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
Timeline, validity and renewal
How long registration takes
Approx. 12-18 months for registration in a straightforward case
without objections.
Validity and renewal
A Ghana trademark is valid for 10 years from the filing date. Renewable indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Renewal must be filed before expiry or within the statutory grace period with surcharge
Client stories
Businesses that trust us with their brands across borders.
What sets Legacy Partners apart is their dedication to building strong client relationships. Their team was approachable, responsive, and always ready to guide us through the trademark registration process. We felt valued and supported from start to finish.
Working with Legacy Partners for our trademark registration was an excellent experience. Their expertise, attention to detail, and clear guidance made the process smooth and hassle free. We truly appreciate their responsive communication, personalized service, and commitment to building strong client relationships. Highly recommended for professional and reliable trademark service.
Legacy Partners provided excellent support throughout our trademark registration process. Their expertise, attention to detail, and professional approach gave us confidence at every stage. We truly appreciate their reliable service and commitment to protecting our brand.
* Client stories are shared with permission.
Trademark registration in Ghana: FAQ
Can foreign companies file trademarks in Ghana?
Yes. Foreign individuals and companies may file trademarks in Ghana without restriction.
Is a local agent required for foreign applicants?
Yes. Foreign applicants must appoint a local trademark agent for filing and correspondence.
Is use of a trademark required before filing?
No. Prior use is not required at the time of filing.
Does Ghana follow the Nice Classification?
Yes. Ghana follows the Nice Classification (Classes 1–45).
Are trademark applications published?
Yes. Accepted applications are published in the Trademarks Journal for opposition.
Is proof of use required for renewal?
No. Proof of use is not required at the time of renewal.
Are well-known trademarks protected in Ghana?
Yes. Well-known marks are protected, even if not registered, subject to proof.
Is Ghana a member of the Madrid System?
No. Ghana is not a member of the Madrid Protocol, so protection must be obtained through national filing.
Can a trademark be restored after expiry?
Yes. Restoration is possible during a statutory grace period, subject to payment of fees.
Are geographical names registrable in Ghana?
Generally no, unless the name has acquired distinctiveness.
Trademark registration in nearby countries
We cover 190+ countries and regional offices. See every country we cover.
Register your trademark in Ghana today
Speak to our trademark consultants in Ghana. 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.
