Elimination of graphic representation: the requirement for graphic representation was eliminated.

If you wish, you can check other reasons why your trade mark could be refused (also called absolute grounds).

for Contracting Parties which examine only for absolute grounds of refusal

for Contracting Parties which examine only for absolute grounds of refusal......... two

for Contracting Parties which examine only for absolute grounds of refusal......... two

for Contracting Parties which examine only for absolute grounds of refusal

Since 1 January 1996 the BTMO has had responsibility for examining filings of trade marks in the light of the absolute grounds for refusal.

The EUTM application is rejected even if one of these grounds exists only in one EU Member State.

It would be disproportionate and practically unworkable to require national offices to examine absolute grounds for refusal in all national jurisdictions and languages of the Union.

It would be disproportionate and practically unworkable to require national offices to examine absolute grounds for refusal in all national jurisdictions and languages of the Union.

After examination for absolute grounds for refusal, the EUIPO establishes a search report, citing all prior identical and similar European Union trademarks.

International registrations designating the European Community shall be subject to examination as to absolute grounds for refusal in the same way as applications for Community trade marks.

The offices shall limit their examination ex officio of whether a trade mark application is eligible for registration to the absence of the absolute grounds for refusal provided for in Article 4.

International registrations designating the European Community shall be subject to examination as to absolute grounds for refusal in the same way as applications for Community trade marks.

International registrations designating the Union shall be subject to examination as to their conformity with Article 28(2) to (4) and to absolute grounds for refusal in the same way as applications for EU trade marks.