Trademark Protection in the UK After Brexit

Since 1 January 2021, the UK is outside the EU system. Previous EU marks were converted automatically, but new marks need separate UK procedure. Here is what it means for Saudi investors.

The Competent Authority

UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), headquartered in Newport, Wales. Advanced electronic platform in English only.

Procedure and Timelines

Filing: 30 minutes via the IPO portal.

Substantive examination: 4–6 months.

Publication: 2-month opposition.

Issuance: 1–2 months.

Total: 6–9 months.

Fees

First class: £170 (~SAR 800) via online filing.

Each additional class: £50 (~SAR 235).

Renewal every 10 years: £200 for first class.

Among the cheapest systems in developed countries.

What Changed After Brexit

EUTM no longer covers the UK — separate registration is required.

EU marks registered before 2021 were converted to equivalent UK marks (cloned marks).

Madrid Protocol still works for the UK, so Madrid filing is possible.

Recommendation

If the UK is a target market, register directly with IPO or via Madrid. Do not delay.

The UK registers marks at lower cost than Saudi Arabia, and faster. No reason to postpone.

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