What Is the Madrid System for International Trademarks

The Madrid System is an international mechanism that makes it easier to protect a trademark in many countries. For businesses in Vietnam looking to expand abroad, it offers a streamlined alternative to filing separately in each market. This article explains what the system is and how it works.

An overview of the system

The Madrid System is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). It allows a trademark owner to file a single international application, in one language and with one set of fees, to seek protection in any of the member countries (Contracting Parties) it chooses to designate. Vietnam is a member, so Vietnamese businesses can use the system.

How it works in outline

The system is built on a link to a domestic (basic) application or registration:

• The applicant first has a basic mark filed or registered with its home office — in Vietnam, the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam.
• The international application is filed through that home office and forwarded to WIPO.
• WIPO examines it for formalities and records it in the International Register.
• Each designated country then examines the mark under its own law and decides whether to grant protection there.

Benefits and limits

The main advantages are administrative simplicity and centralised management of renewals and changes. However, each designated country still applies its own examination, so protection is not automatic everywhere. The international registration also depends on the basic mark for an initial period, during which problems with the basic mark can affect the international one.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Vietnamese application before using Madrid?

Yes, you need a basic application or registration in Vietnam as the foundation for the international application.

Does the Madrid System guarantee protection everywhere I designate?

No, each designated country examines the mark under its own law and can refuse protection within its territory.

Can I add more countries later?

Yes, you can extend the international registration to additional member countries later through a subsequent designation.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law advises on whether the Madrid System suits your expansion plans and manages the preparation and filing of international applications through the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam and WIPO — contact our team.

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