Canada Trademark Registration Guide | Process, Fees, Timeline & FAQs for Foreign Applicants (CIPO)

Planning to expand your business into Canada? Securing your brand through Canada trademark registration is a critical first step. Email: yto4ww@evershinecpa.com

I. Canada Trademark Registration – Key Facts

1. Governing Authority
   Trademarks in Canada are administered by the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO).
2. Trademark System in Canada
   Canada adopts a use-and-application system, meaning:
   • Applications can be filed based on:
     • Use in Canada, or
     • Proposed use (intent to use)
3. Non-Use Cancellation
   • After 3 years of registration, a trademark may be challenged
   • If the owner cannot prove use without valid justification, the mark may be cancelled under Section 45 proceedings
4. Filing Options
   Foreign applicants may apply via:
   • National Application (direct filing with CIPO)
   • Madrid System (designating Canada)
5. Required Documents
   To file a Canadian trademark application, you typically need:
   • Applicant’s name and address
   • Trademark representation (word mark or logo)
   • List of goods/services (classified under the Nice Classification)
   • Government filing fee
     [Note]
     • Proof of use is NOT required at filing
     • No ID or corporate documents are required under current practice
6. Timeline
   • Typical registration timeframe: 18–24 months
   • May vary depending on examination backlog and objections

II. Canada Trademark Registration Process (CIPO)

1. Filing
   • Submit application and pay official fees
   • CIPO assigns a filing date and application number upon acceptance
2. Examination
   • Examiner reviews:
     • Registrability
     • Conflicts with prior trademarks
   • If issues arise, CIPO issues an Examiner’s Report (Office Action)
     Response deadline: 6 months
3. Approval & Advertisement
   • If approved, CIPO issues a Notice of Approval
   • The trademark is then published in the Trademarks Journal
     Opposition period: 2 months
4. Registration
   • If no opposition is filed (or opposition fails):
     • The mark proceeds to registration
     • CIPO issues a Certificate of Registration
5. Validity & Renewal
   • Trademark validity: 10 years
   • Renewable every 10 years

III. Canada Trademark Fees (2026 Update)

According to the Service Fees Act, official fees are periodically adjusted.

Effective January 1, 2026:

• First class filing fee: CAD 491.06
• Each additional class: CAD 149.04
  
  Important Notes:
• Fees are based on the date payment is received, not filing date
• 2026 Expected annual adjustment: approx. 2.7% increase

IV. Is There Fast-Track Examination in Canada?

Currently, CIPO does not provide a general fast-track examination system.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays:

• File a complete and accurate application
• Use pre-approved terms from the Goods & Services Manual
• Respond to Office Actions promptly

V. Timeline Overview

• Filing : Upon submission
• Examination : 15–18 months
• Publication (Opposition) : 2 months
• Registration : After publication if no opposition
  Total Duration : 18–24 months
  

Contact Us

Evershine IP Services Corp.
Taipei Time Zone in Evershine headquarter.
Contact Engaging Manager: Jerry Chu Director
Mobile: +886-939- 357-735
Tel: +886-2-2717-0515 Ext: 103
WeChat: jc0096

or
For investment structure relevant with multi-national tax planning and Financial & Legal Due Diligence for M&A (Merge and Acquisition), send an email to HQ4lon@evershinecpa.com
Dale Chen, Principal Partner/CPA in Taiwan+China+UK will be accountable to your case.
Email address: dalechen@evershinecpa.com
Linkedin address: Dale Chen    

Additional Information

Evershine has 100% affiliates in the following cities:
Headquarter, Taipei, Xiamen, Beijing, Shanghai, Shanghai,
Shenzhen, New York, San Francisco, Houston, Phoenix Tokyo,
Seoul, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur,
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Paris, London, Amsterdam, Milan, Barcelona, Bucharest,
Melbourne, Sydney, Toronto, Mexico

Other cities with existent clients:
Miami, Atlanta, Oklahoma, Michigan, Seattle, Delaware;
Berlin, Stuttgart; Prague; Czech Republic; Bangalore; Surabaya;
Kaohsiung, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Donguan, Guangzhou, Qingyuan, Yongkang, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Kunshan, Nanjing, Chongqing, Xuchang, Qingdao, Tianjin.

Evershine Potential Serviceable City (2 months preparatory period):
Evershine CPAs Firm is an IAPA member firm headquartered in London, with 300 member offices worldwide and approximately 10,000 employees.
Evershine CPAs Firm is a LEA member headquartered in Chicago, USA, it has 600 member offices worldwide and employs approximately 28,000 people.
Besides, Evershine is Taiwan local Partner of ADP Streamline ®.
(version: 2024/07)

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