The UK is preparing to leave the EU on 31 October 2019.
When we leave, all existing EU Trade Marks (EUTM), Registered Community Designs (RCDs) and International Registrations designating the EU will only cover the remaining 27 EU Member States. These registered rights will no longer provide protection in the UK.
On exit day, holders of existing EUTMs and International trade marks designating the EU will be provided with a comparable UK trade mark. Holders of an existing RCD and an International design designating the EU will be provided with a re-registered design. The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) will need to amend our systems and undertake maintenance to recognise the creation of these rights.
This work will affect our internal and external services for trade marks and designs.
Essential work will take place from 11pm 31 October 2019 until 4 November 2019.
Effect on services
The following services will be affected:
Trade marks
- Apply to register a trade mark
- Renew your trade mark
- Give notice of your intention to oppose a trade mark
- Search for a trade mark
- Track a trade mark
- Check the trade marks journal
- Search trade mark decisions
Designs
To note: patents are unaffected by this disruption. You are still able to apply and renew through the normal process.
Effect on dates
Digital application services will be unavailable on this date.
If the filing date of 31 October 2019 - 04 November 2019 is important you can apply for a trade mark or design through our paper application channels.
Customers can file an opposition between 31 October 2019, 01 November 2019 or 04 November 2019 as services using the paper form are unaffected.
You will not be able to file a threatened opposition and we advise that you do this in advance of 11pm on 31 October 2019. Customers should contact our information centre at
