Question 1

How do I check if my mark is available?

Accepted Answer

Search the public registers: ippo.gov.mk, TMView (EUIPO), Madrid Monitor (WIPO). A professional clearance opinion is recommended.

Question 2

How much does a trademark registration cost?

Accepted Answer

IPPO fees are around 19,400 MKD; with representative fees, the total market price is 750–900 EUR for a standard mark.

Question 3

How long does the procedure take?

Accepted Answer

12–18 months without opposition.

Question 4

Can I use ® before registration?

Accepted Answer

No. ® is only for registered marks. ™ can be used in the meantime.

Question 5

What if I miss the renewal deadline?

Accepted Answer

You have a 9-month grace period with an extra fee. After that, the mark is removed.

Question 6

Do I need a representative?

Accepted Answer

Not if you are a resident. Yes if you are a foreign applicant.

Question 7

What can be patented?

Accepted Answer

Inventions with novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability (Art. 24).

Question 8

How long does a patent last?

Accepted Answer

20 years from the filing date (Art. 74(1)).

Question 9

Can I patent my code?

Accepted Answer

No — a computer program as such is not patentable. It is protected by copyright. A technical implementation involving software may be, under certain conditions.

Question 10

What is "state of the art"?

Accepted Answer

All information available (publicly disclosed, in any language, any form) before the filing date (Art. 26).

Question 11

Does publishing on YouTube destroy novelty?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Any public disclosure can destroy novelty. File before you publish.

Question 12

How long does protection last?

Accepted Answer

Initial 5 years, renewable up to 25 years total (Art. 172).

Question 13

Can I protect just a color?

Accepted Answer

Color alone, no — but a color composition as part of a design, yes.

Question 14

Does it protect function?

Accepted Answer

No. Design protects only appearance. Function is protected by patent.

Question 15

Do I need to register the work?

Accepted Answer

No. Protection arises automatically on creation (Art. 12).

Question 16

How long does copyright last?

Accepted Answer

Life of the author + 70 years (Art. 55).

Question 17

Can I transfer copyright?

Accepted Answer

Only economic rights. Moral rights are inalienable.

Question 18

Is code protected?

Accepted Answer

Yes — as a written work (Art. 12(2)(2)).

Question 19

Can I use someone else's work for education?

Accepted Answer

Statutory limitations exist (educational use, quotation, parody) — but do not cover all cases.

Question 20

Is Macedonia in the EU for IP?

Accepted Answer

No. EU trademarks and designs do not automatically cover Macedonia. A separate national or Madrid/Hague application is required.

Question 21

Who grants the rights?

Accepted Answer

IPPO for industrial property. Copyright is not registered.

Question 22

Is there an electronic filing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, IPPO has a portal at e-prijava.ippo.gov.mk for patents.

Frequently asked questions about IP in Macedonia

Trademark

Patent

Industrial design

Copyright

General