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Can anyone use the Madrid System to register a trademark internationally?

Senior Trademark Attorney

Anyone who is a national of a Madrid System member state, or who has a domicile or real and effective business establishment in a member state, can use the system. The applicant must also have a pending or registered trademark in the chosen office of origin.

Even with a Madrid Protocol filing, you’re not guaranteed global trademark rights. The way it works is that each member country examines applications under its own national rules and can independently refuse protection. In fact, if you receive an office action/opposition in any jurisdiction, you’ll have to go through local counsel to respond and overcome those obstacles. The system provides a convenient filing mechanism; it does not guarantee outcomes.

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