OHIM launches e-filing system

In an attempt to make the Community trademark registration system more user-friendly, the Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (OHIM) has made it possible to file applications online.

For the applicants, the advantages are as follows:

• a standard form;
  
  
• a simplified process for applications involving multiple priorities;
  
  
• real-time filing confirmation; and
  
  
• the speedy reception of a Community trademark number.

On the negative side, applicants will find that:

• designs must be filed as a separate attachment;
  
  
• there is no procedure for making corrections; and
  
  
• the standard form is not yet available in Greek.

The OHIM benefits the most from the new online filing system; its role is simply to accept completed forms. For the system to benefit trademark applicants, important changes will need to be made. For example, there must be a mechanism for applicants to change name, make assignments or appoint a representative.

Hans Georg Zeiner, Zeiner & Zeiner, Vienna