Introduction 

As the world marketplace evolves, a business trademark must be protected to maintain the brand identity. One of the reasons that it has received recognition is the sound legal structure of the region. Sweden handles trademark registration in the country by using the Swedish Intellectual Property Authority (PRV) which manages the system with precision. Established in 1885 and managed by the Ministry of Climate and Enterprise, PRV is the focal point that oversees Swedish intellectual property rights which entails patents. This guide provides the entire process of trademark registration in Sweden, including important steps, deadlines, and main aspects to consider. It also explains every phase, starting from the first surveys and classification through, to seeking registration, examination, and publication, offering stakeholders insightful information to guide them to move through the process smoothly.

Also, it explores ways to protect the trademark worldwide, i.e. through the use of the European Union Trade Mark (EUTM) and the Madrid Protocol that ensures that your trademark is safe on a larger scale. Whether representing clients as a lawyer or operationalising a business, knowledge of Sweden’s trademark registration system is indispensable. This guide aims to enlighten you on how to protect your trademark rights in Sweden and the rest of the world.

Sweden has earned a reputation for its solid and reliable legal system, which provides a structured and well-organized process for trademark registration through the Swedish Intellectual Property Office (Patent- och registreringsverket, PRV). This blog outlines the key steps, timeline, and authorities involved in filing a trademark application in Sweden.

Regulatory Authority: Swedish Intellectual Property Office (PRV)

It is the main organisation on intellectual property (IP) ownership rights in Sweden, offering exclusive rights, brand marks, patterns and literary rights. The Department of Environment and Business established PRV in 1885 and currently manages its main offices in Stockholm and Söderhamn. Providing a comprehensive package of confidential services, PRV is facilitating innovation as well as the protection of IP. The agency is offering services concerning the registration and trading of patent, trademark, and design applications. Availability of databases and access to the public, with tailored consulting services like novelty investigations. PRV contributes further by providing educational resources and skill development initiatives that equip entrepreneurs, professionals, and researchers with an in-depth knowledge of IP.

PRV operates as a global search authority and a Global Preliminary Review Authority Under the International Patent Agreement also placed PRV at the forefront of the Global intellectual property field. Its International Quality Standard Certification, ISO 9001:2015 is proof of how committed the organisation is to the standard, and this accreditation guarantees that the agency is per global quality guidelines.

Trademark Application Guidelines

When applying for registration of a Trademark in Sweden, there are a few guidelines, a summary of these guidelines is given below:

The trademark should have an exclusive character. If an item or offering does not have a unique identity, it cannot be regarded as a trademark. The trademark’s pattern must be recognisable sufficiently to evidently distinguish the product and amenities of the owner of the mark from those of opposing businesses.

Applicants must ensure their mark isn’t easily mistaken for someone else’s trademark. Under the Trademarks Act (2010:1877), authorities may consider trademarks confusingly similar if they are identical or alike and relate to the same or similar products and services.

Applicants must avoid including elements that others could interpret as someone else’s protected surname, well-known artistic names, similar names, or personal images. Typically, one can obtain trademark registration in Sweden within five to six months.

Detailed process of Trademark Registration

Preliminary Considerations 

First, we need to carry out a brand search. Before filing a trademark request to PRV, it’s advised to conduct an initial investigation to confirm your intended trademark is distinct and improbable to clash with current trademarks. This can help you prevent possible problems during the filing procedure. 

Choosing the Suitable Categorisation

Claimants must categorise their products and/or offerings according to the international classification of goods and services. Correct classification is essential, as it determines the extent of trademark protection. After doing a preliminary search and consideration then we will submit an Application Submission, which usually consists of proper documentation. 

Required Documentation

The application should include:

• Applicant’s full name and address,
• Accurate representation of the trademark (word, symbol, or combined),
• List of goods and/or services with appropriate classes,
• Power of attorney, if submitted through an agent,
• Priority documents, if claiming priority.

There are two methods through which we can file or submit an application (Filing Methods and Fees). The application can be submitted digitally through PRV’s online portal or through paper forms. The following are the charges for this application;

• Electronic Application: SEK 2,400 
• Paper-based forms application: SEK 3,500
• Additional Classes: Additional fees apply per class 

Formal Examination

After filing and submitting an application, there will be an examination of the filed application. Once one submits an application, PRV does a formal inspection to determine if the application is complete and correctly filled. Where there is a lack of information or inaccurate details, the applicant is contacted and allowed to make corrections.

Substantive Examination

PRV approves the distinctiveness of the trademark and screens for possible conflicts with existing marks. If it finds any objections during examination, it issues an office action requiring the applicant to respond within a set timeframe.

Publication and Opposition

Once the trademark passes examination, PRV publishes it in the Swedish Trademark Gazette. After publication, any party may file an objection within three months. If someone files an opposition, both parties can present their arguments, and PRV will issue a ruling.

Registration and Validity

If no one opposes the application or if the PRV decides the opposition in the applicant’s favor the PRV registers the trademark and issues a registration certificate. The trademark then receives protection for ten years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely in ten-year terms.

Additionally, you can also get Global Protection because Sweden is a member of both the European Union Trade Mark (EUTM) and the Madrid Protocol businesses in Sweden can enjoy the advantages of enhanced security provided by these two systems. They have the option to register their trademarks in Sweden through national registration, which could potentially lead to broader protection through the EUTM for the entire European Union, and via the Madrid arrangement for a wider range of member countries.

Maintenance and Monitoring

PRV may cancel the registered mark if the trademark holder doesn’t use it within five years. PRV encourages applicants to monitor the market, journals, and gazette regularly to identify potential infringements or conflicting trademark applications.

So, these are the overview of the steps, timeline and authorities that we have to go through for the filing of the trademark in Sweden. In my opinion, the process and steps are very plain and crystal clear; their online filing service trademark registration makes it easier and more convenient for the applicant. 

Conclusion

In the end, the Swedish Intellectual Property Office (PRV) regulates a systematic and transparent system for registering trademarks in Sweden. PRV carefully manages each step of the trademark process—from application to certificate delivery to ensure strong IP protection. It complies with global standards through its membership in the Patent Cooperation Treaty and ISO 9001:2015 certification. Understanding the complexities of trademark registration remains essential for both businesses and legal professionals.

The system offers trademark holders both national and international protections. Tools like the European Union Trade Mark (EUTM) and the Madrid Protocol help ensure broader coverage. PRV, as a registered trademark authority, supports business owners and legal professionals throughout the registration process. This guidance simplifies the journey and ensures proper compliance. With these steps in place, companies can safeguard their brand, build consumer trust, and succeed globally.

References

1. Swedish Intellectual Property Office (PRV), Processing of Applications of Trademarks, (last visited May 12, 2025)  https://www.prv.se/en/trademarks/prepare-for-the-trademark-application/processing-of-applications-of-trademarks
2. S.S. Rana & Co., Trademarks in Sweden, (last visited May 12, 2025) https://ssrana.in/global-ip/international-trademark-filing-registration/trademarks-registeration-and-filling-in-sweden/
3. World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), PCT Applicant’s Guide- Sweden, (last visited May 12, 2025)  https://pctlegal.wipo.int/eGuide/view-doc.xhtml?doc-code=SE&doc-lang=en
4. Enterslice, Trademark Registration in Sweden: Documents, Fees and Process, (last visited May 12, 2025) https://enterslice.com/se/trademark-registration-in-sweden
5. Nordic Trademarks, Swedish Trademark, (last visited May 12, 2025) https://nordictrademarks.com/tmbasic/swedish-trademarks