In order to file a trademark in Panama, this must be registered before the General Direction of Intellectual Property Registry (DIGERPI). It is the state agency responsible for the application of the intellectual property protection laws in Panama.
What is a trademark in Panama?
A trademark in Peru identifies products or services in the market. It may consist of numbers, figures, letters, images, or a combination of these. When registered, the trademark grants the exclusive right to use it exactly as filed. If you want to use the word element separately from the logo—or vice versa—we recommend registering another trademark that includes only the specific word or figurative element you wish to protect independently.
Certain restrictions apply to what qualifies as a trademark. You can contact us, and we’ll help you understand the restrictions and conduct a free search.
How to file a trademark in Panama?
To file a trademark in Panama can be done on-line, by post or personally; the form must must contain at least the following:
- Documents required:
A. Complete name and address of the applicant(s);
B. Particulars of a mark
C. Class/es in which the trademark application is to be filed
D. Photo file of the trademark, detailed and accurate labeling of the product or service to be trademarked.
- Power of Attorney: signed by the applicant or an authorized officer of the applicant company.
- Sworn translation of documents into Spanish: our in-house translators can assist you.
Check out how to file a patent in Panama.
How is the process of filing a Trademark in Panama?
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Previous Search: Before starting the application process, applicants must verify that their distinctive sign is available. Additionally, some restrictions may apply to what qualifies as a valid trademark. You can contact us for assistance, and we will gladly perform a free preliminary search. [Click here to initiate the search.]
Submission of Application: Once you complete and submit the trademark application, DIGERPI reviews it for any errors or missing information. Registering a trademark in Panama grants you the exclusive right to use the mark in the market and to prevent unauthorized use by third parties.
Publication: After DIGERPI approves the application and supporting documents, they publish the trademark in the Official Gazette. The application remains in the Bulletin for 60 days, during which third parties may file oppositions.
Examination: Following publication, DIGERPI conducts two examinations. During the formal examination, the examiner checks if the application meets basic requirements, such as accurate applicant details and proper classification of goods or services. Most objections during this stage involve classification issues. During the substantive examination, the examiner verifies whether the proposed trademark is already registered by another party and ensures it complies with Panamanian trademark law.
Extra Information regarding Trademarks in Panama
Registration
The registration certificate grants the owner the exclusive right to use such mark for a 10 year period, beginning from the filing date. Trademarks in Panama may be renewed for a further period of ten (10) years. There is no limit to how many times a trademark may be renewed. A trademark in Panama may be renewed up to one 1 year prior to the date of expiration. If a trademark is not renewed before its date of expiration a grace period of six 6 months is granted.
Duration of the procedure:
The processing time from the first filing to registration is approximately 12 months in the case of a smooth registration procedure.
Opposition and Appeal:
During the publication stage it is possible to make objections the opposition period is 30 labor days from publication date of the application. The PTO may grant or deny registration of a new trademark.
Representation by a Intellectual Property Agent
Please note that a general power of attorney is admitted and we can use it to file any number of applications on behalf of the same client
Goytia & Associates has local offices in Argentina and in key cities of the world to ensure the best quality of IP service. Our extensive coverage of +120 countries enables our clients to effectively manage multiple filings and cases through one centralized agent.
Do you need to file a trademark in another country?
This content may suffer modifications due to updates in the official regulations of Panama.
