On 1 November 2022, various changes to the Regulations under the Madrid Protocol concerning the international registration of marks came into effect. The changes affect the appointment of representatives and the renewal of international registrations.

As of 1 November 2022, it will no longer be possible to appoint a representative through a signed letter. All requests should now be made using WIPO’s online service “Manage your Representative” available under eMadrid.

Though it is still also possible to appoint representatives using downloadable Madrid System forms, WIPO strongly recommends that users use its eMadrid online services.

Applicants can still appoint a representative at the time of filing an international application (eMadrid or Form MM2); new holders (transferees) can use “Change in Ownership” under eMadrid (or Form MM5).

To provide more flexibility, WIPO has now made it possible to renew international registrations as early as six months before the expiry date. Further, it will record the renewal, issue the renewal certificate and notify all designated Madrid System members as soon as all necessary fees have been paid. The renewal date will still match the expiry date.

To ensure that the renewal certificate contains all up-to-date information, users must make any changes to their international registration BEFORE renewing it through eMadrid. To access the Information Notice, click here.