Introduction
Your trademark is one of your company’s most valuable assets — protecting your brand name, reputation, and identity. In Switzerland, trademark protection lasts 10 years, after which it must be renewed with the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI).
But what happens if you forget to renew your Swiss trademark? This article explains the legal consequences, grace period, and how to safeguard your rights with professional assistance from DeinDomizil.
How Long a Swiss Trademark Remains Valid
A trademark registered in Switzerland is valid for 10 years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely for further 10-year periods by filing a renewal request and paying the required fee to the IPI (Institut Fédéral de la Propriété Intellectuelle) before the expiration date.
For official details, visit the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI).
What Happens If You Miss the Renewal Deadline
Failing to renew your trademark in time can lead to serious legal and business consequences:
- You lose exclusive ownership of your brand name and logo.
- Competitors may register similar trademarks.
- You can no longer take legal action against infringement.
- Your brand’s market value and reputation could be affected.
Once expired, your trademark protection ends, and your brand becomes vulnerable to misuse.
The Six-Month Grace Period
Swiss law provides a six-month grace period after the expiry date. You can still renew your trademark within this window by paying an additional late renewal fee.
However, if you miss this grace period, the trademark is deleted from the register and cannot be reinstated. You would need to submit a new application, which could be rejected if another similar mark has already been registered.
Why Losing Your Trademark Hurts Your Business
Allowing a trademark to lapse can create long-term damage:
- Loss of trust: Customers may associate competitors’ products with your old brand.
- Rebranding costs: Changing your logo, name, and materials can be expensive.
- Reduced company value: Intellectual property is an essential business asset.
- Weaker legal protection: Your ability to operate under your established identity may be compromised.
How to Prevent Trademark Expiry
To keep your trademark protection active, consider these proactive measures:
- Record all trademark dates in your company’s compliance calendar.
- Set renewal reminders well before deadlines.
- Use a Swiss domicile address provider like DeinDomizil to receive all IPI correspondence promptly.
- Rely on professionals to manage renewals and filings efficiently.
Protect Your Business Identity with DeinDomizil
At DeinDomizil, we help Swiss and international businesses maintain full legal compliance through domicile address services, company formation, and director representation.
Our experts ensure that your trademarks, administrative documents, and accounting obligations are handled on time — so your company remains protected and compliant in Switzerland.
Explore related services:
Keep Your Brand Protected in Switzerland
If your trademark renewal date is approaching — or you’ve already missed it — DeinDomizil can assist you in renewing and managing your intellectual property while keeping your business fully compliant.
👉 Contact us today to protect your trademark and secure your company’s identity in Switzerland.
📌 Contact DeinDomizil
🏢 Blegistrasse 7, 6340 Baar, Switzerland
📞 +41 (0)41 410 61 61