Canadian Patents and Trademarks Fees to increase: Effective from January 01, 2025

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) will adjust certain fees by 4.4% under the Service Fees Act and this adjustment will come into effect from January 01, 2025. The modification mainly includes hikes and by making these adjustments, CIPO aims to bring its operations up to date with global norms and maintain the highest standard of its Intellectual Property services.

The notable key changes will apply to the range of services, including filing new Patent and trademark applications, renewals, opposition proceedings, etc. We have below mentioned noteworthy changes in CIPO fees for easy reference:

Canada Patent Fees:

Canada Trademark Fees:

What leads to a rise in Fees?

This increase in fees could be attributed to several factors, including inflation and the growing costs of processing trademark applications and maintaining intellectual property services. It is also worth noting that the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) has stated that it does not receive government funding. Instead, CIPO is fully funded through the fees paid by owners for their IP services. Accordingly, the new fees aim to improve the financial position and service quality and ensure the sustainability of Canada’s IP system.

Conclusion:

These fee adjustments may affect the corporates, particularly those who have large portfolios. These increased costs for applications and renewals may lead businesses/owners to rethink and plan strategies for their IP. MSMEs and Individuals may also face a financial burden.  They can prepare by filing applications and paying renewals before January 1, 2025 deadline to avoid higher fees and any financial hardship. Without any further delay, the holders/owners of registered IP should expedite the review of their existing cases, check the need for renewal, and accordingly adjust their budgets to accommodate the increased costs and protect their IP rights.

Author:

Santoshi Karasi

Babita Gupta