International trademark registration can be achieved through the Madrid System, which is governed by two treaties: the Madrid Agreement and the Madrid Protocol. The system is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Eligibility:
   • The Madrid System is available for businesses or individuals who have a connection (nationality, domicile, or establishment) with a country that is a member of the Madrid Agreement or Protocol.
   • The applicant must have a registered trademark or a pending application in the country of origin.
2. National/Regional Application:
   • Before applying internationally, you need to have either a national trademark registration or a pending application in your country of origin.
3. Submit an International Application:
   • File an international trademark application through the trademark office of your country of origin.
   • Specify the countries in which you want protection. These are referred to as “designated contracting parties.”
4. WIPO Examination:
   • WIPO examines the international application to ensure compliance with formal requirements.
   • If accepted, WIPO records the mark in the International Register.
5. Substantive Examination in Designated Countries:
   • The trademark application is forwarded to each designated contracting party for substantive examination.
   • Each country determines whether to grant protection based on its national laws.
6. Individual Country Registration:
   • If no objections are raised by the designated contracting parties, the trademark is protected in those countries as if it had been filed directly with their national office.
7. Maintenance and Renewal:
   • Maintenance and renewal are handled individually in each designated country.
   • The protection lasts for 10 years and can be renewed.

Advantages of the Madrid System:

• Centralized Filing: File a single international application instead of filing separate applications in each country.
• Cost-Efficient: Potentially more cost-effective than individual filings in multiple countries.
• Simplified Management: Centralized management of the international registration.