Pillar 08 · IP Navigator Shield™

International Protection (Madrid Protocol)

One filing, 130+ countries — protect your brand globally.

Who it's for

Brands selling internationally, e-commerce sellers on global platforms, and anyone with cross-border customers.

Typical cost

Base WIPO fee ~$653 CHF, plus per-country designation fees ($100–$500+ each). Filing agent fees optional.

Timeline

6–18 months per country. Some countries auto-approve, others examine independently.

What it is

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that lets you file one application in your home country and extend protection to 130+ member countries. Administered by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization).

How the Madrid Protocol works

You need an existing 'basic' trademark application or registration in your home country (the U.S., for most Chriselide clients). That basic mark becomes the anchor for the international filing.

File U.S. trademark first (or in parallel)
Submit international application via TEAS or WIPO directly
Designate the countries where you want protection
Each country reviews under its own trademark law
Registration lasts 10 years, renewable indefinitely

Which countries need separate direct filings

Not every country is a Madrid member. If you sell in these, file directly with their national trademark office.

Canada — joined Madrid but has quirks; direct filing often cleaner
Argentina, Brazil, Chile — Latin America is mixed
Some Middle Eastern and African countries — check WIPO list

The 5-year dependency trap

For 5 years after the international filing, if your U.S. base application dies (refused, cancelled, or abandoned), all international extensions die too. This is called 'central attack.' Plan carefully.

Official resources

Free government and public sources. No login required unless noted.