Trademark Registration in Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg (Benelux)

Overview of Trademark Protection in the Benelux Region

If you’re doing business in Belgium, the Netherlands, or Luxembourg, protecting your brand through trademark registration is essential. In this region, national trademark registration is not possible—you cannot register a trademark solely in Belgium, the Netherlands, or Luxembourg. Instead, protection is only available through two routes: the Benelux trademark system or the European Union trademark system.

The Benelux route offers a cost-effective and efficient way to secure your brand across all three countries with a single application. A registered trademark ensures your business name, logo, or slogan is legally protected—helping you prevent imitation, counterfeiting, or misuse of your brand identity.

 

At TrademarkHost, we specialize in helping businesses secure trademark protection across Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Based in the Netherlands, we have deep local knowledge and direct access to the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP).

What sets us apart?

  • 👨‍⚖️Certified Expertise: Our attorneys are BMM Certified Trademark Attorneys—officially recognized by the Benelux Association of Trademark and Design Law (BMM). This ensures you’re getting legal guidance from professionals who meet the highest standards in the region.
  • 🌍Benelux-Focused: Unlike global platforms that take a one-size-fits-all approach, we focus exclusively on Benelux trademark law. That means faster, more accurate filings and personalized support tailored to the region’s unique legal landscape.
  • 📞Local Support, Global Reach: Whether you’re a local startup or an international brand entering the Benelux market, we provide responsive, knowledgeable service in your language and time zone.
  • 🛡️End-to-End Service: From trademark search and strategy to registration and enforcement, our attorneys handle every step—so you can focus on growing your brand with confidence.

Aspect

Details

Official Trademark Office

The Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP) 

Relevant Law

The Benelux Trademarks Act in 1971

Countries Covered

Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg

Registration Period

10 years (renewable)

Renewal Requirement

Every 10 years

Trademark Examination

There is only examination on absolute grounds.  Signs not deemed distinctive in the examination can be registered if distinctiveness has been acquired by use in all three Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg).
After the examination on formalities and absolute grounds, the application is published in the online Benelux Bulletin for opposition purposes.

Opposition Period

2 months after publication

Use Requirement

In the Benelux, once your trademark is registered, you are not required to prove use immediately. However, the mark must be genuinely used within five years of registration. This is known as the “use requirement”. If you fail to use the trademark within that five-year period—or stop using it for five consecutive years—third parties can request revocation of your trademark for non-use.

Average Registration Time

3 to 5 months

Unique Aspects

– The Benelux countries are a member of the International MADRID Trademark System (WIPO). and of the European Union.

Fixed registration prices. No surprises.

We simplifying legal hurdles—transparency and fair pricing always come first.

The National Registration fee, starts at:

Basis fee Benelux

EUR 625

Additional class

EUR 150

Trademark registration prices are per trademark and always include the local official authority fee and Trademarkhost services like…

VAT: For EU members all prices are exclusive of VAT.

Aprox. Prices: These are indicative, non-binding, starting prices and the final cost may vary depending on your specific situation, including the number of classes, and any changes to official fees set by the relevant government authority.

International Registration system: If you are considering using the Madrid International Trademark System, please note that costs per country are typically lower compared to filing directly through national procedures. We’re happy to check whether this option is suitable for your specific case — just get in touch with us for a tailored quote.

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