Application success rate in Canada: 5-year trend
In Canada, trademark applications are managed by the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), a special operating agency under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED).
From 2019 to 2023, Canada's trademark application success rate averaged 50.76%. While the rate remained relatively stable in the early years, it has declined significantly—from 63.88% in 2019 to just 28.01% in 2023—highlighting a growing challenge for applicants in securing trademark registrations.
Application filed in | Registered | Filed | Success rate |
|---|---|---|---|
2019 | 52,045 | 81,479 | 63.88% |
2020 | 43,140 | 72,803 | 59.26% |
2021 | 46,476 | 84,884 | 54.75% |
2022 | 33,209 | 73,250 | 45.34% |
2023 | 20,047 | 71,560 | 28.01% |
Total (average) | 194,917 | 383,976 | 50.76% |
Comparison to major IP Offices
When compared to the US (56.91%) or the EU (90.80%), Canada’s success rate is significantly lower. Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Success rate |
|---|---|
Canada (CIPO) | 50.76% |
The United States (USPTO) | 56.91% |
The European Union (EUIPO) | 90.80% |
The United Kingdom (UKIPO) | 86.22% |
Australia (IPA) | 52.52% |
Some contributing factors include:
Long Processing Times: Canada’s processing time is much longer (up to two years), and applicants may be more inclined to abandon their applications before completion.
Lower Volume of Applications: Fewer trademark applications may mean less competition, but it could also result in less rigorous examination due to fewer resources dedicated to processing applications.
Non-Ex-Officio Jurisdiction: Unlike some other jurisdictions where the IPO may issue a trademark without input from the applicant (e.g., Monaco), the CIPO requires active engagement from applicants. As a result, the application process can be more challenging and lengthy, leading to lower success rates.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Canada
With a success rate of only 50.76%, successfully registering a trademark in Canada requires careful planning and a strong understanding of CIPO 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 attorney is one of the most effective ways to increase your chances. An attorney can help navigate the complexities of the CIPO 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 attorneys 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.
