In foreign trade, especially in the field of cross-border e-commerce, the issue of US trademark registration is particularly important. In recent years, as Amazon has strengthened its management of brands and copyrights, registering international trademarks has become a necessary step to protect the legitimate rights and interests of brands. However, for many sellers, the specific process and precautions of US trademark registration are not very clear. In this article, we will introduce and answer common questions in the US trademark registration process.
1. US trademark registration application qualifications
According to the provisions of the US Trademark Law, applicants can apply for trademark registration regardless of which country or region they come from. This includes enterprises, institutions, social groups, businessmen and natural persons. For applications in the name of a legal person, it is usually necessary to provide the business license of the enterprise; while for applications in the name of a natural person, it is necessary to provide an identity document.
2. How long does it take to register a US trademark?
Depending on the application method, the processing time for US trademark registration will vary. Applications registered in the name of a company usually receive an acceptance notice in about 2-3 weeks; while for applications registered in the name of an individual, the acceptance notice may be issued in about 3-4 weeks. If you need to register a trademark urgently, whether it is a company or an individual application, you may get an acceptance notice on the same day. However, during statutory holidays, the issuance of the acceptance notice may be delayed by 1-2 weeks. As for the issuance of the trademark certificate, it usually takes about 1 year to wait.
3. How long is the validity period of the US international trademark registration?
The trademark registration system in the United States is very strict. The validity period of a registered trademark is ten years from the date of registration. After the trademark expires, the applicant can apply for an extension, and each extension period is also ten years. This system ensures that the rights and interests of trademark holders are protected and is conducive to maintaining market order.
4. What content cannot be used to register a US trademark?
In the US trademark registration, some content is not allowed. First, immoral, deceptive or defamatory trademarks will not be authorized. Secondly, any trademark that uses the US flag, state flag, emblem or its imitation will not be approved. The red cross sign and its related symbols, imitations of emblems or their combinations are also excluded from trademark registration. Similarly, the United Nations emblem or its imitations are not eligible for registration. In addition, if the trademark is merely a description of the product, a deceptively false description, a geographical description, or is misleading, it will not be authorized. Trademarks named only after a person’s surname also do not meet the registration requirements. In addition, the name, portrait, or signature of the person concerned cannot be used as a trademark without the written consent of the person concerned; when the wife of the United States President is still alive, the name, signature, or portrait of the deceased president as a trademark will not be allowed without her written consent. Finally, if it is similar to a trademark that has been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or is similar to a trademark or trade name that has been used but not abandoned by others, and is likely to cause confusion, deception, or misunderstanding, such a trademark will not be authorized.
When it comes to U.S. trademark registration issues, it is crucial for cross-border e-commerce sellers to understand these common problems and related legal provisions. By correctly understanding and following the relevant provisions of U.S. trademark registration, sellers can better protect the legitimate rights and interests of their brands and further enhance their operations and brand value on platforms such as Amazon.