Secure Your Brand in Europe: EU Trademark Registration for Swiss Businesses
As a Swiss entrepreneur or corporate leader, protecting your brand internationally is essential — especially if you're active in the European market. Even though Switzerland is not part of the EU, Swiss businesses can still gain full European trademark protection by filing an application with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).
With a single registration, your trademark is protected in all 27 EU member states, offering legal clarity and strategic security for cross-border trade, digital platforms, franchising, and more. At DeinDomizil, we support companies in aligning their Swiss foundation with EU growth strategies.
Who Can Apply for a European Trademark?
Swiss residents and companies are fully eligible to register an EU trademark. The only legal requirement is to appoint an EU-based representative, such as a trademark lawyer or firm.
For many international clients, we act as the strategic bridge — coordinating Swiss legal services with EU-based partners to ensure full compliance. If you're already working with us for your domicile address or Swiss director mandate, expanding into the EU trademark system is a natural next step in safeguarding your intellectual property.
Registration Process Overview
Filing begins with a proper trademark search, ensuring your name or logo isn't already registered in the EU. Next, you’ll classify your trademark under the correct Nice Classification categories based on your goods or services.
Once submitted, the EUIPO will review your application and publish it for a three-month opposition period. If no objections arise, your trademark is officially registered and protected across the EU.
The average uncontested application takes 4 to 6 months. Once granted, your European trademark (EUTM) is valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely.
What Are the Costs?
The EUIPO charges:
- €850 for the first class
- €50 for the second class
- €150 for each additional class
This flat, centralized structure makes it far more cost-effective than filing separately in multiple countries — particularly for businesses operating in various EU markets.
What If You Already Have a Swiss Trademark?
If you’ve already registered your trademark in Switzerland, you can claim priority — provided your EU application is filed within six months of the Swiss registration.
This means your EU application will inherit the earlier Swiss filing date, which can be crucial for gaining precedence in competitive or fast-moving industries.
Why Work with DeinDomizil?
At DeinDomizil, we support startups, holding structures, and growth-stage companies in building legally sound and internationally scalable business foundations.
We provide:
- Domicile services in Switzerland
- Swiss-resident director mandates
- Coordination with EU-based trademark attorneys
- Document preparation and Nice Classification management
- Response support for oppositions or legal inquiries
- Renewal schedule tracking and filing reminders
Whether you’re preparing for EU expansion or simply want stronger IP protection, we’re your partner in long-term brand security and compliance.
📌 Legal Reference: Review the Swiss Code of Obligations – Articles 946–961 and visit the official EUIPO website for more information.
✅ Contact DeinDomizil
DeinDomizil GmbH
🌐 Website
📞 +41 (0)41 410 61 61
🏢 Blegistrasse 7, 6340 Baar, Switzerland