Application success rate at Hungary’s HIPO: 5-year overview
From 2019 through 2023, Hungary posted an average trademark application success rate of 76.05%. While this figure is lower than that of some Western and Southern European countries, it has remained consistent and even improved slightly in peak years like 2021.
Applications filed in | Registered | Filed | Success rate |
|---|---|---|---|
2019 | 2,870 | 3,871 | 74.14% |
2020 | 2,965 | 3,949 | 75.08% |
2021 | 3,260 | 4,173 | 78.12% |
2022 | 2,549 | 3,299 | 77.27% |
2023 | 2,771 | 3,662 | 75.08% |
Total (average) | 14,415 | 18,954 | 76.05% |
Comparison to major IP Offices in the region
Hungary’s average success rate of 76.05% places it slightly below the EU average but still within a reasonable range for applicants. In regional comparison, it trails behind Croatia (89.20%), Greece (89.55%), and France (88.85%), while performing similarly to Finland (77.84%) and Sweden (76.04%).
Compared to other Central and Eastern European countries, Hungary’s performance is respectable. It slightly underperforms Slovakia (84.62%) and Slovenia (85.56%), but remains a stable option for applicants willing to invest in proper preparation and strategy. Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
Hungary | HIPO | 76.05% |
Croatia | DZIV | 89.20% |
Greece | OBI | 89.55% |
France | INPI | 88.85% |
Slovakia | SKIPO | 84.62% |
Slovenia | SIPO | 85.56% |
The European Union | EUIPO | 90.80% |
Several factors contribute to Hungary’s moderate—but steady—trademark approval rate:
Rigorous examination standards
HIPO follows a relatively strict examination process, assessing not only formalities and classification but also potential conflicts with earlier rights. This means applications with even minor deficiencies or conflicts may face objections.
Increasing professionalization
Trademark applications filed with the help of attorneys or IP professionals tend to perform better. As awareness grows, so does the quality of filings—reflected in a higher success rate in 2021 and 2022.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Hungary
Despite a relatively high success rate of 76.05%, registering a trademark in Hungary requires some preparation and understanding of HIPO procedures. To improve your likelihood of approval, it’s recommended to begin with a comprehensive trademark search to identify any potential conflicts. Ensure that your mark is distinctive and not merely descriptive, and clearly define the goods and services associated with your application.
Working with a qualified trademark lawyer is one of the most effective ways to increase your chances. A trademark lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the HIPO process, respond effectively to Office Actions, and build a solid filing strategy from the start.
If you are currently preparing to submit your first trademark application, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to strengthen your chances of success, with multiple pieces of advice directly from our trademark lawyers with years of experience. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to receive expert feedback on your trademark and guidance on the best steps forward.
