I want to protect my company brand abroad as well — would I need legal advisory?

To protect a trademark abroad, you must register it directly in accordance with the trademark law of the relevant country or region.

Since domestic trademark registration alone does not grant rights abroad, it is important to carefully design the application strategy and procedures.

There are largely four methods of overseas application.

First, the method of directly applying to the country where you want protection. This method usually utilizes the priority right under the Paris Convention and must follow the procedures and requirements of each country.

Second, the method of applying through institutions that operate in countries without independent trademark offices or by treaty between multiple countries. The Benelux Trademark Office or the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) is representative.

Third, when both individual countries and regional organizations exist, like EUIPO or ARIPO, you can receive protection in multiple countries with a single application.

Fourth, the method of utilizing the Madrid Protocol international application system, which allows for international application in multiple countries based on a valid trademark registered domestically.

Since overseas applications must consider various factors such as target countries, procedures, costs, and periods, receiving legal advisory at the initial stage is essential.

Through legal advisory, the entire process including application strategy establishment, country-specific procedure guidance, document review, and utilization of international treaties can be supported, increasing the possibility of securing overseas trademark rights and minimizing legal risks.