With the wish that every application filed will be successfully granted, Wefly would like to share the latest A–Z procedures for exclusive trademark registration in 2026 for your reference.

Step 1: Selecting a trademark and classifying goods and services 

A trademark is a sign (letters, numbers, images, colors, sounds, etc.) used to distinguish the goods or services of one organization or individual from those of others, helping consumers identify product origin and build reputation. When selecting a trademark, applicants should avoid using words or images that carry negative connotations or may give rise to inappropriate associations.

In particular, the trademark must be distinctive and unique, leaving a strong impression that enables consumers to easily remember the goods or services and clearly identify their commercial origin. This also provides a solid foundation for exclusive protection and long-term brand value development. 

The list of goods and services may include those currently provided or planned for future business activities and bearing the selected trademark. These goods and services must be classified according to the Nice Classification. 

From January 1, 2026, applicants should note that the Nice Classification version 13–2026 must be used. TTNH_NICE 2026 final.pdf

Step 2: Trademark search

After selecting a trademark name, applicants should conduct a prior trademark search to assess the likelihood of successful registration. Based on the search results, applicants can decide whether to file the application or modify/change the trademark to increase registrability. Trademark searching helps minimize risks and save time and costs during the registration process.

 Below are some commonly used free trademark search databases. 

1. Wipo Publish: 

http://wipopublish.ipvietnam.gov.vn/wopublish-search/public/trademarks?1&query=*:*

2. Global brand Database: https://branddb.wipo.int/en/

3. WIPO Madrid Monitor: 

https://www3.wipo.int/madrid/monitor/en/

Step 3: Preparing the trademark application dossier

If, after conducting the trademark search, the trademark is assessed as having registrability, the applicant may proceed with filing the trademark application. The trademark application dossier includes:

– Two trademark application forms prepared in accordance with Form No. 08, Appendix I enclosed with Decree No. 65/2023/ND-CP dated August 23, 2023 of the Government.

– Five trademark specimens, with dimensions not smaller than 2 cm × 2 cm and not larger than 8 cm × 8 cm.

– Power of attorney (in case the application is filed through an industrial property representative).

– Proof of payment of official fees and charges (if the application is filed by post or via bank transfer).

Step 4: Filing the Trademark Application

Trademark applications may be filed in one of two ways: in person or by post to the One-Stop Service Division of the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Hanoi Office – One-Stop Service Division: 1st Floor, National Innovation Center Building, No. 113 Tran Duy Hung Street, Yen Hoa Ward, Hanoi City.

Ho Chi Minh City Office – One-Stop Service Division: Building No. 1196, 3 Thang 2 Street, Binh Thoi Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

Da Nang Office – One-Stop Service Division: Representative Office of the Ministry in Central Vietnam, No. 42 Tran Quoc Toan Street, Da Nang City.

In addition, authorized industrial property representatives may file trademark applications online via the online filing portal of the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam.

Step 5: Monitoring the Application

The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam examines the trademark application to assess compliance with formal and substantive requirements.

Stage 1 – Formality examination of the trademark application:: 01 month from the filing date. In case the application is deemed invalid, the IP Office of Vietnam will issue a notice of intended refusal and allow the applicant 02 months to correct or remedy the deficiencies.

Stage 2 – Publication in the Industrial Property Gazette:02 months from the date the application is accepted as valid.

Stage 3 – Substantive examination: 18–24 months from the date of acceptance of the valid application.

Stage 4 – Grant of the protection title: 03–04 months from the date of payment of the granting fee (if the trademark is approved).

In case of difficulties during the receipt or handling of administrative procedures, applicants may contact the hotline of the One-Stop Service Division for assistance. One-Stop Service Division Hotline: (024) 3822 8899.

WEFLY – Your Partner in Sustainable Brand Protection

As a licensed Industrial Property Representative Organization and Copyright Representative Organization authorized by the Vietnam Intellectual Property Office and the Vietnam Copyright Office, Wefly possesses full qualifications and capabilities to support clients in domestic and international trademark and copyright registration, infringement handling, and intellectual property dispute resolution. Place your trust in Wefly for complete peace of mind in intellectual property protection.