What is trademark renewal?

Trademark renewal continues the protection term of an existing registration. In Taiwan, a registered trademark generally has a 10-year protection term from the registration publication date, and each approved renewal adds another 10 years.

A renewal application may generally be filed within the six months before expiry. Filing is still possible within six months after expiry, but the official renewal fee is doubled. If no application is made within the statutory period, the trademark right generally expires.

Why is trademark renewal important?

If renewal is not completed within the permitted period, the brand may lose the existing registered right. A business that continues to use the mark, has built goodwill, or plans to keep operating should manage renewal dates before the final deadline.

For a multi-mark or international portfolio, maintain a clear record of registration numbers, owners, expiry dates, and renewal decisions so ownership or document issues can be addressed in time.

Must all goods and services be renewed?

No. The owner may renew all or part of the goods or services covered by the existing registration. Goods or services that are no longer needed may be left out of the renewal.

A partial renewal can reduce the existing scope, but it cannot add new goods, services, or classes. New business activities may require a separate trademark application.

How is renewal different from filing a new application?

Renewal continues the term of an existing registered trademark. A new filing creates a separate application that must go through a new filing and examination process. The two should not be treated as interchangeable.

Before renewal, also check the recorded owner, address, current use, and any assignment or other record change that may need a separate procedure.