If you're building a brand in Canada, securing your trademark should be one of your first steps. A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to your name, logo, or slogan across Canada—and helps prevent others from using something confusingly similar. At Trademark Factory®, we simplify the trademark process with flat fees and licensed Canadian trademark agents and attorneys who handle every step for you.
This guide covers everything you need to know about trademark registration in Canada—from application to renewal—and explains why thousands of entrepreneurs trust Trademark Factory® to protect their intellectual property.
Why Register a Trademark in Canada
Canada is one of the world’s most business-friendly environments, with a strong legal system and well-developed intellectual property protections. Registering a trademark gives you the exclusive right to use your brand in association with your goods or services across Canada.
Without a registered trademark, your brand is vulnerable. Competitors could adopt a similar name or logo, and you may struggle to stop them. With a registered trademark, you gain enforceable rights, increased brand value, and long-term legal protection under trademark law Canada.
Who Can File a Trademark in Canada
Anyone can apply for a trademark in Canada, including individuals, companies, partnerships, and associations. However, foreign applicants must use a licensed Canadian trademark agent.
At Trademark Factory®, all applications are filed and managed by experienced trademark attorneys and agents. We don’t offer do-it-yourself options because we believe expert handling leads to better results, faster approvals, and stronger protection.
How Trademark Priority Works in Canada
Canada follows a first-to-use system when it comes to trademark rights. This means that legal rights are granted to the first person or company to use the trademark in commerce—not necessarily the first to file.
That said, registering your trademark as early as possible is essential. A registration through the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) provides nationwide protection, regardless of where or how extensively you've used your mark. It's the most effective way to secure your brand in Canada.
What the Canadian Trademark Registration Process Looks Like
The trademark registration process involves several key steps. Here’s how it works when you file through Trademark Factory®.
First, we help you determine if your brand elements—whether a name, logo, or slogan—are eligible for protection. Trademarks must be distinctive. Generic, descriptive, or overly common terms are unlikely to pass examination. Our team evaluates your mark and advises you on your chances before we file anything.
Next, we conduct a comprehensive search of the Canadian trade mark register to identify any potential conflicts with existing marks. This is a critical step. Many trademark applications are rejected simply because someone else filed a similar mark first. With our search and legal review, you’ll understand your risks before proceeding.
Then we prepare and file your trademark application. Every application includes a description of your goods or services, classified according to the international Nice Classification system. We handle this technical detail for you to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Once filed, your application is reviewed by a CIPO examiner. If the examiner raises objections—for example, if your mark is deemed descriptive or too similar to an existing registration—our attorneys will respond on your behalf.
If your application is approved, it’s published in the Trademarks Journal for public review. At this stage, third parties can oppose your trademark if they believe it conflicts with theirs. If no opposition is filed, or if opposition is unsuccessful, the trademark is allowed and proceeds to registration.
How the Opposition Process Works in Canada
Opposition is a formal process handled by the Trademarks Opposition Board. If someone files an opposition, you will receive a copy of their statement, and both parties have the opportunity to submit evidence and arguments.
Opposition proceedings are often lengthy and complex. They can take two to four years to resolve. This is where Trademark Factory® offers a key advantage: we represent you throughout the process, ensuring that your rights are fully protected and your case is handled with legal expertise.
How Long It Takes to Register a Trademark in Canada
The average timeline for registering a trademark in Canada is between 24 and 32 months, assuming there are no major objections or oppositions. While that may sound long, most of that time is administrative and does not require your involvement. With Trademark Factory®, your trademark application is monitored and managed from day one—so you don’t have to worry about missing deadlines or making costly mistakes.
What It Costs to Register a Trademark in Canada
CIPO’s official government filing fees depend on how many classes of goods or services your application includes. As of now, the online filing fee is $347.35 for the first class and $105.26 for each additional class. There is also a registration certificate fee of $210.51.
At Trademark Factory®, we offer flat-fee packages that cover the full process—from search and filing to examination and registration. There are no hidden costs or hourly rates. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying, right from the start.
Trademark Application Success Rate in Canada
From 2019 to 2023, the success rate for trademark applications in Canada averaged 50.76%. Many applications fail due to poor planning, lack of distinctiveness, or incomplete filings. At Trademark Factory®, we dramatically improve your chances by having every step handled by qualified legal professionals with deep experience in trademark law Canada.
How Long a Canadian Trademark Lasts (and How to Renew It)
Once registered, a Canadian trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely. Trademark renewal can be done online or by mail. The online renewal fee is $421.02 for the first class and $131.58 for each additional class.
Our team can assist with renewals as part of your ongoing trademark strategy to ensure your protection never lapses.
What’s the Best Way to File a Trademark in Canada?
You have three main options for filing a trademark in Canada: directly through CIPO, through the WIPO (Madrid Protocol) system, or with a professional service like Trademark Factory®.
Direct filing gives you full control, but you’ll need to manage the application yourself or hire a trademark agent. The WIPO system allows for multi-country filing but has strict limitations and dependencies on your home country registration.
Trademark Factory® offers a better path. We use licensed attorneys to build your trademark strategy and file directly with CIPO. If international protection is needed, we determine the best approach for each country—either through WIPO or direct national filings. You get global reach, personalized advice, and professional support—all for a flat fee.
Why Choose Trademark Factory®
When you file a trademark in Canada with Trademark Factory®, you get:
- Expert legal advice from licensed Canadian trademark agents and attorneys
- A flat-fee model that covers everything, with no hourly charges
- A full-service team that manages the entire process from start to finish
We don’t believe in cutting corners. We don’t believe in DIY. We believe in doing it right—the first time.
If you're ready to trademark a name in Canada, protect your company logo, or secure your brand with confidence, contact Trademark Factory® today.
Let’s make your brand unstoppable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I register a trademark in Canada?
To register a trademark in Canada, you must file an application with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The process includes submitting a trademark application, classification of goods and services, review by an examiner, and publication for opposition. Trademark Factory® handles every step for you with flat fees and licensed Canadian trademark agents.
2. How much does it cost to file a trademark in Canada?
Government fees start at $347.35 for the first class of goods or services, with $105.26 for each additional class, plus a $210.51 registration certificate fee. Trademark Factory® offers all-inclusive flat-fee packages that cover everything from filing to registration.
3. How long does it take to get a trademark registered in Canada?
Most Canadian trademark applications take between 24 and 32 months to reach registration. The timeline depends on the complexity of the application and whether there are any objections or oppositions. Trademark Factory® monitors your file and responds to all office actions on your behalf.
4. Can I trademark a company name in Canada?
Yes. You can trademark a company name in Canada if it is distinctive and not already registered by someone else. Registering your business name as a trademark gives you exclusive rights across the country. Trademark Factory® helps you trademark a name in Canada with legal guidance and full-service filing.
5. What is the Canadian trademark register?
The Canadian trademark register is the official public record of all registered trademarks in Canada. Managed by CIPO, it contains information about trademark owners, application dates, and status. A trademark must be on this register to receive full legal protection.
6. Do I need to use a lawyer to file a trademark in Canada?
While it’s not legally required, using a licensed Canadian trademark agent or attorney is highly recommended—especially for foreign applicants or complex filings. At Trademark Factory®, all applications are handled by licensed professionals for maximum protection and peace of mind.
7. Can I trademark a logo in Canada?
Yes. You can trademark a logo in Canada by submitting a design mark as part of your application. Logos must be unique, not confusingly similar to existing trademarks, and must not contain prohibited content. Our team ensures your logo meets all legal requirements before filing.
8. What happens if someone opposes my trademark application?
If someone opposes your application during the publication period, your case goes to the Trademarks Opposition Board. You’ll need to defend your application with legal arguments and evidence. Trademark Factory® manages opposition proceedings for you, using our in-house legal team.
9. How long does a trademark last in Canada?
A Canadian trademark registration lasts for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely for additional 10-year periods. You can renew online through CIPO. Trademark Factory® offers renewal services so you never lose your rights.
10. What is the difference between trademark registration and brand registration in Canada?
Brand registration in Canada typically refers to trademark registration. Legally speaking, protecting your brand means registering it as a trademark through CIPO. This gives you exclusive nationwide rights and the ability to enforce your trademark under trademark law in Canada.