Requirements for trademark registration

The most important requirements for registering a trademark are as follows:

• The trademark must be distinctive.
• The trademark must not be confusingly similar to earlier trademarks, company names or other rights.

Different types of obstacles to registration

There are two types of obstacles to registering trademarks: absolute and relative obstacles.

Absolute obstacles mean the trademark cannot be accepted for registration if there is such an obstacle, for example if the mark has no distinctive character or is contrary to accepted principles of morality.

In contrast, relative obstacles, such as the risk of confusion, can be overcome. That is possible for example if the owner of the trademark constituting an obstacle gives their consent to the registration of your mark. Send the consent to the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH).

Trademarks may also fail to be registered for other reasons. Read more about other obstacles to registration.