In today’s competitive business environment, safeguarding your intellectual property is just as critical as building it. A strong trademark is important for inspiring greater connection with consumers and leading to better performance over time. For businesses active in or connected with Cyprus, trademark registration is more than a formality; it is a key investment in brand security, reputation, and growth.

Table of contents

1. Legal framework and protection
2. Trademark registration process
3. Benefits
4. Why legal expertise matters

Legal framework and protection

The protection of trademarks in Cyprus is based on two main pieces of legislation: the Trademarks Law, last amended in 2006, and the Law on the Control of Goods Infringing Intellectual Property Rights of 2018. These provide a comprehensive legal framework allowing businesses to safeguard their commercial identity.

A trademark in Cyprus can consist of a wide range of elements, including business names, logos, letters, product packaging, colours, sound signatures, and even holograms. Once registered, the trademark gives its owner exclusive rights to use and control that mark in the Cypriot market. Owners can license, assign, or even sell these rights, making trademarks not only a protective tool but also a commercial asset. The duration of protection is long-term. A trademark is initially secured for a period of ten years from the date of registration, and it can be extended in additional ten-year cycles as long as renewal fees are paid.

For broader protection, businesses often extend their filings to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) or the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

For a trademark application to be accepted, the mark must be distinctive, and must not be generic, deceptive, merely descriptive, or likely to cause confusion with earlier rights.

Trademark registration process

Filing for trademark registration in Cyprus is handled through the Intellectual and Industrial Property Office. The application must include a description of the proposed mark, the list of goods or services it will represent, and payment of the relevant fees. As of 2025, the cost for an electronic submission starts at €129, with €94 for every additional class of goods or services. Collective or certification marks require a higher fee, starting at €415.

Once the application is submitted, it undergoes an initial review to confirm that all required details have been provided. It then proceeds to a more detailed assessment, where examiners consider whether the trademark is distinctive and whether it conflicts with existing rights.

If the Office raises concerns, the applicant has an opportunity to respond, adjust the application, or challenge the decision. In some cases, appeals can be taken to the Administrative Court. Once accepted, the trademark is published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cyprus and becomes enforceable against third parties provided that during the “cooling off period” no oppositions have been traced against the trademark application. The estimation of the “cooling off period” is three months from the publication of the trademark in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cyprus

Benefits

Trademark registration offers businesses a range of advantages. It grants the exclusive right to use the mark in commerce, effectively blocking competitors from using similar signs. This exclusivity creates a competitive advantage, strengthens consumer trust, and adds value to the brand. Because trademarks can be sold, franchised, or licensed, they also become income-generating assets.

Why legal expertise matters

Although it is technically possible for a business to attempt the process alone, trademark law in Cyprus can be complex. Partnering with an experienced intellectual property lawyer helps ensure the application is filed correctly and that any objections or oppositions are handled strategically.

For foreign businesses, having local representation is not only beneficial but also required. A Cypriot lawyer must act as the official representative before the Intellectual and Industrial Property Office.

Conclusion

A well-protected brand may become the business’s most valuable asset, and in an increasingly globalised market, taking proactive steps in Cyprus can set the stage for expansion and success far beyond its borders.

The Cypriot legal framework is robust, offering ten-year protection that can be renewed indefinitely, but the process does require careful preparation and expert navigation.

Our team of experienced intellectual property lawyers in Cyprus provides end-to-end support with trademark searches, applications, oppositions, renewals, and enforcement, ensuring your brand is fully protected at every stage.

In addition to handling trademarks, experienced lawyers can advise on complementary areas such as patents, industrial designs, and copyright.

For more information please contact Nicole Prodromou (nicole.prodromou@demetriades.com) or your usual contact at Chrysses Demetriades & Co LLC.