Japan · Trademark & IP
Trademark registration, patents, copyright, official IP offices, and filing costs.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
Japanese trademarks are registered with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). You search the register, file an application classifying goods/services under Nice, and the JPO substantively examines both absolute and relative grounds. After you pay the registration fee the mark registers, with a two-month post-registration opposition window. A Japanese trademark lasts 10 years and is renewable.
Trademarks, patents and designs are registered with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). Japan is a first-to-file jurisdiction.
- Trademarks, patents and designs are filed with the JPO.
- Japan is first-to-file, so early application is important.
- International protection can be extended via WIPO's Madrid (trademarks) and PCT (patents) systems.
- 1
Search the register
Search the JPO database (J-PlatPat) for conflicting or similar marks before filing.
- 2
File the application
File with the JPO, describing the mark and classifying the goods/services under the Nice Classification.
- 3
Substantive examination
The JPO examines both absolute and relative grounds — including conflicts with earlier marks — and may issue office actions.
- 4
Registration and post-grant opposition
After you pay the registration fee, the mark registers; third parties then have two months to file an opposition.
- 5
Renewal and other IP
A Japanese trademark lasts 10 years and is renewable; protect inventions with JPO patents, appearance with designs, and works via automatic copyright.
- 6
Enforce and go international
Enforce your rights against infringers and use the Madrid Protocol to extend trademark protection abroad.
- J-PlatPat register search
- Application (Nice classes + mark)
- Substantive exam (absolute + relative grounds)
- Registration fee + 2-month post-grant opposition
- Registration (10 years) + renewal
- Patents + designs (JPO) + automatic copyright
- Enforcement strategy
- Madrid Protocol for international
- Japan Patent Office (JPO)
Trademarks, patents and designs.
Frequently asked questions
Does Japan examine earlier marks?
Yes — the JPO conducts a full substantive examination including relative grounds, so conflicting earlier marks can block registration.
When can others oppose?
In Japan opposition is post-registration — third parties have two months after registration is published to challenge the mark.
Is copyright registered in Japan?
No — copyright arises automatically on creation; registration with the Agency for Cultural Affairs is optional and mainly evidentiary.
Government portals
- Prime Minister's Office of Japan — Official site of Japan's Prime Minister — cabinet policies, press conferences, policy statements
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan — Japan visa applications, overseas safety info, consular services, and diplomatic policy
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan — Residence status, work visas, permanent residency, and naturalization in Japan
- National Tax Agency (Japan) — Income tax, corporate tax, consumption tax filing and e-Tax online submission