Using the Madrid Protocol to Protect Your Trademark in Vietnam (2026)

For companies protecting a brand across multiple countries, the Madrid System offers a single, centralised route. Vietnam is a full member, so it can be both a designated country in an international application and an office of origin for Vietnamese businesses expanding abroad.

What the Madrid System is

Administered by WIPO under the Madrid Agreement and Protocol, the Madrid System lets an applicant seek trademark protection in many member countries through one application, in one language, with one set of fees, based on a home ("basic") application or registration. The system has over 110 members, covering more than 130 countries; Vietnam is a member of the Protocol.

Designating Vietnam from abroad

A foreign company that already has a home trademark application or registration can designate Vietnam in an international application. WIPO forwards the designation to the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam, which examines it under Vietnamese law. Each designated country has up to 18 months to issue a refusal; if none is issued in time, protection is granted. Importantly, national substantive rules still apply — so a local clearance search before designating Vietnam remains prudent.

Using Vietnam as the office of origin

Vietnamese businesses (or foreign companies with a Vietnamese basic mark) can file an international application through the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam, designating other member countries. A domestic Vietnamese basic application or registration is required as the foundation.

Fees and timeline

WIPO fees are payable in Swiss francs: a basic fee of 653 CHF (black-and-white mark) or 903 CHF (colour), plus complementary/individual fees for each designated country and additional fees from the fourth class of goods/services. Some countries (for example the US and EU) charge individual fees that can be considerably higher. Overall processing to protection typically takes 12–24 months depending on the designated offices.

National route vs Madrid — which to choose

For a company whose main exposure is Vietnam specifically, a national Vietnamese filing often gives better control over the specification. For multi-market rollouts, designating Vietnam through Madrid is usually more efficient. Many companies combine both — a national filing in priority markets and Madrid for the rest.

Frequently asked questions

Is Vietnam a member of the Madrid System?

Yes. Vietnam is a member of the Madrid Protocol, so it can be designated in international applications and act as an office of origin.

Do I still need a local agent for a Madrid designation of Vietnam?

If the office issues a provisional refusal that you wish to contest, you will need a licensed Vietnamese IP agent to respond. A local clearance search before designating is also advisable.

How long does a Madrid designation of Vietnam take?

Each designated office, including Vietnam, has up to 18 months to refuse; if no refusal is issued, protection is granted.

Is Madrid cheaper than national filings?

It is usually more efficient when filing in several countries at once, but individual fees for some countries can be high. The best route depends on your target markets.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law advises on Madrid strategy, files international applications through the office of origin in Vietnam, handles designations of Vietnam and responds to provisional refusals. See our international trademark service or contact our team.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.