RUSSIA

“A sign capable of individualizing the goods/services of legal entities or individual entrepreneurs” is the definition of a trademark under Russian law. (Russian Federation Civil Code, Article 1477).

Procedure

• If the application materials were properly prepared and filed
• If the goods and services were appropriately named and classified
• If the filing and examination fees were paid in full
• If the mark is confusingly similar to any registered trademarks or pending applications with an earlier filing or priority date
•  and if the mark cannot be registered on absolute grounds.

Duration

A trademark can be renewed every ten years after it is first filed and is valid for ten years after that. Within a year of the trademark’s expiration, an application for renewal may be submitted. Additionally, there is a 6-month grace period during which you can apply for renewal beyond the deadline and pay a specified fine.