Algeria

Trademark registration Algeria - Algeria is a member of the Madrid Agreement concerning the International Registration of Marks. Trademark protection is obtained by registration.

Requirements

A trademark application has to be filed before the Algerian Institute of the Intellectual Property (INAPI). A non-legalized Power of Attorney is sufficient. Foreign applicants need to be represented by an Algerian IP Agent/Attorney.

Procedure

The application process includes a formal and substantive examination, without indication of possible identical or similar trademarks. It takes approximately 24 months before an office action is issued by the trademark authority or registration, a provisional refusal of registration can be issued by the Trademark Office. An appeal against this decision can be filed within 2 months. The appeal is study by the Trademark Office appeal commission : if the appeal is accepted, the registration certificate is issued in the other case a definitive refusal decision is issued. After registration the trademark is published. Duly note, in Algeria there are no (national) provisions for filing opposition against a trademark registration before the Trademark Office. The opposition can be filed before the court. Proof of use within the last year of expiration is required for renewal of a trademark.

Duration

A trademark registration in Algeria is valid for 10 years and starts with filing registration date. Please note that the registration of trademark has a retroactive effect to the filing application date. The registration is renewable for periods of 10 years.

Methods

NATIONAL REGISTRATION: If you just want to register your Trademark in one country, it is sufficient to apply for a national registration at the local trademark office.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTRATION (MADRID SYSTEM): If you already have filed a trademark application or have a trademark registration in one or more countries of the Madrid Union (based on the Madrid Agreement and Madrid Protocol), you can obtain trademark protection by filing one single application, so called International Registration (Madrid System).

*Note: The fees for an International Trademark Application (WIPO) will be calculated for each individual country or multiple countries. For a quotation please send us an e-mail with the name of countries where you currently have a registration and all preferable countries where you wish to extend your trademark protection.

Extra

Duly note, if the trademark has not actually been used seriously for a period of 3 years after filing the application, or if the use has ceased for more than 3 years, the trademark may be subject to cancellation before a court.