Searches
Trademarks availability searches are made according to the International nomenclature of the Nice Agreement. Such search applications may target multiclass trademarks. Only word & device and word marks can be searched. The approximate time frame to receive results is 2 working days.
Application
Trademark filing applications require a request to register the trademark, the name and address of the applicant, class, details of the mark, a JPEG version if a logo mark with details of colours if colours are claimed. The application number is assigned on the day of the filing. The application number becomes the registration number. Use or intent to use is not required. Priority can be claimed.
An application can be refused on the basis of a non-registered well-known marks owned by third parties. The objections raised against the registration of a mark may be submitted in response to a refusal of registration, proving that the mark is already used in other countries than Suriname without inconveniences or, if necessary, Court sessions would be required.
The applications are published once they have been examined in form and substance. The application cannot be subject of an opposition. If there is any interest in filing an action, it would have to be at Court. After publication, the Registration Certificate takes from 8 to 10 months to be issued.
Registration
Granted the registration, such is valid for 10 years and there are no maintenance fees due to keep it alive. The first renewal due is 10 years from the filing date.
Cancellation/ Nullity
A registration can be subject to a cancellation action. After three (3) years from the registration, the trademark can be cancelled, if an action is filed before Courts. A registration cannot be subject to a nullity action.
Assignments
In order to record an assignment, it is required a legalized or notarized assignment document or a certified copy thereof and original Power of Attorney bearing a corporate seal/company stamp. In the absence of this kindly notarize at your end at any Notary Public. The time frame to receive the assignment certificate is within 12-18 months.
Renewals
Renewals are for a further period of ten (10) years and the time frame to receive the renewal certificate is within 12-18 months.
