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How Much Does It Cost to Register a Trade Mark in New Zealand?

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Trade Mark in New Zealand?

This guide will help you understand the costs involved in the trade mark registration process and assist you in making an informed decision when registering your trade mark in New Zealand.


What Affects the Cost of Trade Mark Registration in New Zealand?

The cost of registering a trade mark depends on several factors, such as:

  1. The Application Type: Whether you use the Search & Preliminary Advice (S&PA) service or file a standard application.
  2. The Number of Classes: Trade marks are categorized into classes based on the goods or services they cover. Each additional class incurs extra fees.
  3. Professional Assistance: Costs vary depending on whether you file the application yourself or engage a trade mark attorney or lawyer.

Trade mark registration costs in New Zealand

IPONZ Trade Mark Fees: Standard Applications and S&PA Requests

The Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) charges fees based on the type of application you submit and whether you are selecting the goods and/or services from the standardised list of goods and services (Pre-Approved Terms). Below is an overview of IPONZ’s fees as of 16 January 2025:

Application Type Cost per Class
Standard Application – using Pre-Approved Terms NZ$ 70
Standard Application – without Pre-Approved Terms NZ$ 100
Search & Preliminary Advice Application NZ$ 100

The S&PA service is a proactive approach to trade mark registration. It helps businesses identify potential conflicts before committing to a full application. By addressing issues early, this service can save both time and money. It’s done in two steps: first, an examiner reviews your application and gives feedback on any potential issues. You only pay NZ$ 50 for the first part. If everything looks good, you move to the second step, which costs another NZ$ 50, where the trade mark is officially filed. This service is a great way to quickly spot and fix issues, saving you time and money in the long run.


Additional Costs to Consider

Service Cost
Professional Filing Assistance (Optional): Varies
Dealing with objections: Varies depending on the nature of the objection raised
Oppositions or Disputes: Case-dependent; legal fees may apply

Key Considerations When Budgeting

  1. Future Proof Your Application: Include all relevant classes to cover your business activities. Avoid limiting your application to save upfront costs, as adding classes later requires a new application.
  2. Monitor Deadlines: Extensions of time can be difficult to secure in New Zealand, so staying ahead of IPONZ deadlines is critical to avoid delays or additional costs.
  3. Avoid Common Pitfalls: Improperly filed applications can lead to rejection or costly disputes.

Why You Should Engage a Trade Mark Attorney in New Zealand?

Registering a trade mark in New Zealand can be complex, with legal nuances under the Trade Marks Act 2002 (NZ) that may not be obvious to first-time applicants. A trade mark attorney provides expertise in ensuring correct coverage for your business, accurate classifications, and avoiding common pitfalls that could lead to costly rejections or disputes. Additionally, they can conduct comprehensive clearance searches to identify potential conflicts before you invest money and time in your brand. While self-filing may seem cost-effective initially, engaging a trade mark attorney minimizes risk and ensures your application has the best chance of success.

For further information or assistance, contact Aparna Watal.

 

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