To maintain brand protection in Canada, you must renew your registered trademark with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) every 10 years. As of June 2026, the standard online government fee is exactly $595.06 CAD for the first class of goods or services.
The Importance of Trademark Renewal in Canada
Securing a registered trademark gives your business exclusive rights to use a specific name, logo, or slogan across Canada. However, this protection is not permanent. Canadian trademarks must be actively maintained and renewed to prevent them from being expunged (removed) from the federal registry. 🔒 Whether your corporate headquarters is in Toronto, London, or anywhere else in Ontario, managing your federal intellectual property is critical to your brand’s survival.
In recent years, many Ontario business owners have been targeted by sophisticated mail scams. Unofficial third-party companies often send authentic-looking “renewal invoices” demanding exorbitant fees. It is crucial to understand that official renewals are processed exclusively through the federal Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). Hiring an experienced intellectual property lawyer from our directory can ensure your renewal is handled securely and correctly.
Step-by-Step Process for CIPO Trademark Renewal
Renewing a federal trademark is a relatively straightforward administrative process, provided you keep accurate records of your registration dates. 📝 The process applies uniformly across Canada.
Step 1: Determine Your Renewal Deadline
Under Canadian law, a trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the date of registration (for trademarks registered after June 17, 2019). You can submit your renewal application to CIPO up to six months before the expiry date, or within a six-month grace period after the expiry date. Missing this final grace period will result in the permanent loss of your trademark rights.
Step 2: Log into the CIPO Online Portal
The most efficient way to renew your trademark is through the official CIPO online portal. You will need a “My ISED” account (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada). Once logged in, you must enter your specific trademark registration number to pull up your official file. If you work with a law firm, your trademark agent will handle this technical step on your behalf.
Step 3: Review and Group the Nice Classes
Canada now uses the international “Nice Classification” system, which categorises goods and services into 45 distinct classes. If your trademark was registered under the old system (prior to 2019), you must classify your existing goods and services into these new classes before you can renew. This classification dictates your final government fees, as CIPO charges per class.
Step 4: Pay the Government Fees
After verifying your trademark details and classes, you will submit the renewal payment via credit card or through a CIPO deposit account. 💵 Be extremely wary of unsolicited letters demanding payment for “registry publication” or “international monitoring.” CIPO will not send aggressive collection letters. Always verify the source before paying any intellectual property invoices.
How Much Does it Cost to Renew a Trademark in Canada?
The cost of renewing a trademark depends on how many classes of goods or services your brand covers. As of June 2026, CIPO requires the following standard government fees:
| First Class of Goods/Services (Online) | $595.06 CAD |
| Each Additional Class (Online) | $185.49 CAD per class |
| Lawyer / Agent Fees | Typically $300 CAD to $800 CAD + government fees |
How Long Does the Process Take?
When you file a renewal application online, the CIPO database is typically updated almost instantly to reflect the new 10-year term. 🕑 The official digital renewal certificate is usually generated and available for download within a few business days. If you attempt to file via paper mail, the processing time can take several weeks or even months due to government backlogs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I miss the 10-year deadline?
CIPO provides a strict 6-month grace period after the official expiry date. You can still renew during this time by paying the standard Nice class fees. If the grace period expires, your trademark will be expunged.
Do I have to prove I am still using the trademark?
During the standard renewal process, you do not need to submit proof of use. However, under Section 45 of the Trademarks Act, a third party can challenge your registration at any time after 3 years if you are not actively using it in Canada.
Can I add new products to my trademark during renewal?
No. You can only renew the goods and services that are already listed on your registration. If your business has expanded into new product lines, you must file a brand new trademark application for those items.
Are the letters I receive in the mail about trademark renewal a scam?
Many of them are. Numerous unofficial companies monitor public CIPO databases and mail misleading invoices to business owners. Always cross-reference any correspondence with your trademark lawyer or the official CIPO website.
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