Guide to Trademark Registration Procedures in 2025
In today’s fiercely competitive business environment, trademark registration is an essential step to protect intellectual property and build a strong brand presence. If you’re not yet familiar with the process, this article from DEDICA LAW will help you fully understand the registration procedure, required documents, and key legal considerations in 2025.
Overview of Trademarks and Why Registration is Necessary
What is a Trademark?
Under Vietnam's Intellectual Property Law, a trademark is a sign used to distinguish the goods or services of different organizations or individuals. A trademark may consist of words, images, symbols, colors, or a combination of these elements.
Registering a trademark is a legal process to establish ownership through the Intellectual Property Office. Unlike “copyright” (which applies to creative works), trademarks fall under industrial property rights.
Why Should You Register a Trademark?
Trademark registration offers significant practical benefits:
Grants exclusive legal protection within Vietnam’s territory;
Prevents copying, imitation, or unauthorized use;
Becomes a transferrable, contributable, and brand-valuable intangible asset;
Provides a legal basis for international registration through the Madrid System;
Enhances business value in the eyes of investors and partners.
Trademark ownership is only recognized upon issuance of a Trademark Registration Certificate by the Intellectual Property Office.
Trademark Registration Procedure in 2025
Required Dossier
A valid application includes the following:
Trademark registration application (Form No. 08 per Decree No. 65/2023/NĐ-CP);
Five (05) color trademark samples (80 x 80 mm);
List of goods/services under the trademark (classified under Nice Classification – 12th edition);
Power of attorney (if submitted through an industrial property representative);
Documentation proving the right to file (e.g., assignment, inheritance, etc.);
Documentation for claiming priority right (if applicable);
Proof of fee payment as per regulations.
Applications can be submitted in person, by post, or via the online public service portal of the IP Office.
Processing Timeline at the IP Office
Formality examination: 1 month from date of filing;
Publication: Within 2 months after passing formality check;
Substantive examination: 9–12 months after publication;
Decision on grant or refusal of protection;
Payment of registration fee and issuance of certificate.
Total average processing time: 13–16 months.
Term and Validity
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date;
Renewable unlimited times, each for 10 years – must renew before expiration.
Important Notes on Trademark Registration in 2025
Conduct Similarity Search Before Filing
Conducting a search helps reduce the risk of rejection. Options include:
Free online search through reputable websites;
Professional trademark search services from law firms such as DEDICA LAW.
Trademark Must Be Distinctive
A trademark may be refused if:
It is descriptive of the product/service (e.g., “Delicious”, “High Quality”);
It is identical or similar to prior registered marks, causing confusion;
It violates public morals, order, or lacks distinctiveness.
Do Not Confuse Trademark with Copyright
Trademark registration is an industrial property procedure and not a copyright process. If your brand includes artistic or design elements (such as a logo), you can also register copyright with the Copyright Office for dual protection.
Registering a trademark in 2025 is not only a legal necessity for brand protection but also a strategic tool for business growth. If you're seeking a reliable partner to assist in searching, document preparation, and filing, DEDICA LAW is ready to support you throughout the entire process.
Contact DEDICA Law Firm today for expert legal advice!
Phone: (+84) 39 969 0012 (We are available on WhatsApp, WeChat and Zalo)
Head Office: 144 Vo Van Tan Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hours: Monday–Friday (8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
