A brand is property, and property is protected by registration. Attorney Marko Dimov has been an authorised industrial property representative for over 12 years: registration and defence of trademarks, patents and industrial design before the State Office of Industrial Property and before the courts, for domestic and foreign rights holders.
In short: trademark registration in North Macedonia is filed before the State Office of Industrial Property, and foreign rights holders can act only through an authorised local representative. Attorney Marko Dimov has held that authorisation for over 12 years, filing and defending trademarks for domestic and foreign clients.
What does the service cover?
- Prior trademark search and brand protection strategy
- Trademark registration before the State Office of Industrial Property
- International registration through the Madrid System
- Patents and industrial design
- Appellations of origin and geographical indications
- Oppositions, defence and infringement disputes
- License agreements and assignment of rights
- Copyright and related rights protection
Why Dimov & Partners?
- Over 12 years of authorised representative status, registered in the Registry of the State Office of Industrial Property
- Foreign clients: proceedings before the Office are possible for them only through a registered representative
- Full service: from the initial search to the court defence of your trademark
Key facts at a glance
- Applications are filed with the State Office of Industrial Property (SOIP) under the Law on Industrial Property (Official Gazette 21/2009, as amended)
- Oppositions may be filed within 90 days from publication of the application
- A smooth registration typically takes 6 to 12 months if unopposed (an estimate, not a statutory deadline)
- Official fees are modest: a filing fee of 600 MKD and a registration fee of 4.000 MKD, each covering up to three classes, plus SOIP procedural charges
- North Macedonia is a Madrid Protocol member (since 2002): the country can be designated in an international trademark
- A registration lasts 10 years from the filing date and is renewable indefinitely; a mark not used for 5 years becomes vulnerable to cancellation
Frequently asked questions
How do I register a trademark in North Macedonia as a foreign applicant?
You appoint an authorised industrial property representative in North Macedonia. The representative files the application with the State Office of Industrial Property, follows the examination and responds to any objections. The whole cooperation runs in writing, in English.
How long is a trademark valid?
The registration is valid for 10 years from the filing date, with the possibility of unlimited renewal for successive 10-year periods.
Can a foreign company file an application in North Macedonia on its own?
No. Foreign natural and legal persons exercise their rights before the Office exclusively through a registered industrial property representative, such as our firm.
What if someone is using my trademark?
A registered trademark entitles you to court protection: an injunction against use, removal of the infringing products and compensation for damages. It is crucial to react quickly and with evidence.
Can I designate North Macedonia in an international trademark under the Madrid Protocol?
Yes. North Macedonia has been a Madrid Protocol member since 2002, so an international registration can designate the country. A local representative before the State Office of Industrial Property handles refusals, oppositions and further procedures for the designation.
What does trademark registration in North Macedonia cost?
The official fees are modest: 600 MKD for filing and 4.000 MKD for registration, each covering up to three classes, plus the State Office procedural charges. After a conflict search you receive a written quote with the full cost before any obligation.
Related guides
- How to protect your trademark: a step-by-step guide (Macedonian)
- Corporate Legal Assistance for Companies
- Company Formation & Investment in North Macedonia
Related practice areas: Corporate Law · Foreign Investment
Protect your brand before someone else registers it
A trademark search is the first and inexpensive step. Book a call and find out whether your mark is available for registration.
Book a ConsultationThis text is general legal information and does not constitute legal advice for a specific case. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a lawyer.