What Special Considerations Should You Take When Registering a Trademark for a Technology Application in Vietnam

In the digital technology era, a mobile application is not just a tool to reach users but also the brand face of a business. Registering a trademark for a technology application not only helps protect intellectual property rights but also enhances the company’s value in the eyes of investors and customers. However, for a trademark to be legally recognized and truly protected, enterprises must grasp the legal particularities when registering a trademark for software applications in Vietnam.

What makes trademark registration for tech applications different?

When it comes to intellectual property in the tech sector, many people often think of registering software copyrights, neglecting the importance of a trademark. In reality, a trademark is the identifier of the product or service and builds the reputation and differentiation of the app in the market.

Registering a trademark for an application has many points to pay attention to that differ from ordinary goods:

1. Correct classification of services and usage fields
In the international classification (Nice), technology applications often belong to Class 9 (computer software), Class 42 (software development, programming services), or Class 38 (telecommunication services if there are messaging or calling features). However, many businesses only choose one class while their app has multi-industry functions, causing protection scope to shrink.

For example, a food delivery app may fall under Class 9, but if it also offers logistics or electronic payment services, registration should be expanded to Class 39 and 36. Incorrect classification may cause the enterprise to lose protection in key fields in the future.

2. Avoid conflicts with existing trademarks
A common mistake is choosing an app name identical or similar to a protected trademark. This causes the registration to be refused or opposed after publication.

To avoid this, the enterprise should search trademarks in the Intellectual Property Office before filing. The preliminary search tool on the Office’s website or through an intellectual property lawyer helps assess the likelihood of obtaining protection and propose more effective options if there is a risk of overlap.

3. Be careful when using domain names, logos and app icons
Many businesses use domain names or icons as trademarks without checking their legal status first. Conflict with other trademarks or symbols may cause unnecessary disputes or force removal of the app from App Store or Google Play at a third party’s legal request.

Moreover, if the app logo has a distinctive graphical element, it should be registered together with a word mark to increase comprehensive protection.

How to register a technology application trademark effectively in Vietnam?

Beyond complying with basic legal steps, enterprises need a protection strategy suited to the tech product’s nature—that is rapidly changing and easily copied.

1. Think of your trademark as a commercial asset
In the digital economy, a trademark is not only legal but also an asset that can be valued, bought, sold, or licensed. Therefore, registration should be tied to a long-term brand development strategy: international expansion, franchising, investment cooperation, etc.

Registering the trademark early, from the MVP (minimum viable product) stage, can help the enterprise avoid losing rights when the app begins to gain large user numbers.

2. Register in parallel domestically and internationally
If the app targets overseas markets, the enterprise may consider registering an international trademark via the Madrid system. This not only reduces costs but also becomes a powerful leverage in fundraising or business expansion.

In Vietnam, trademark registration takes about 12–18 months. During this time, the publication of the trademark and brand building must be managed carefully to avoid infringing on others’ rights or having the brand “taken away.”

3. Cooperate with legal entities experienced in technology field
Filing the registration can be done independently, but to increase success rates, many enterprises choose to cooperate with lawyers or law firms who have practical experience in trademarks in the technology field.

A professional legal entity will help:

• Advise on selecting a trademark aligned with development strategy

• Evaluate registration chances via in‑depth searches

• Prepare the application properly, avoid errors causing refusal

• Monitor the application progress and handle oppositions (if any)

• Advise handling infringements and protecting registered trademarks

In the intensely competitive app market, protecting a trademark is the way a business protects its own value and creativity. Registering a trademark is not only a legal step but also a strategic move in the journey of building a sustainable app brand.

Start early and correctly from today, because in the tech world, the faster often wins!

Do you have an idea to develop an app and need to protect the brand from the start? Contact DEDICA, a reputable law firm. We will help you register your trademark quickly, legally, and cost-effectively.
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