Benelux Trademark Renewal

A Benelux trademark is valid for 10 years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.

The timeline for renewal is:

• 6 months before expiration: Start the renewal process.
• 6-month grace period after expiration: Still possible to renew by paying a late fee.
• After the grace period: The trademark automatically lapses and cannot be reinstated.

To renew a trademark in the Benelux region, you need:

• The registration number and trademark details
• Completion of a simple renewal form
• Payment of the standard renewal fee, and if applicable, the late fee

The BOIP does not require proof of use for renewal. Renewals are not published, but the online database updates the status accordingly.

If your trademark lapses:

• It becomes available for registration by third parties.
• You retain the right to take legal action against infringement for 2 years post-expiry, as long as the claim is filed within 5 years.
• This 5-year limit does not apply in cases of bad faith registration.

To ensure smooth renewals:

• Notify BOIP of ownership changes.
• Update business address or name changes.
• Keep your email contact active: BOIP sends one reminder 6 months before expiration to the listed attorney or owner.

Avoid these errors:

• Forgetting to renew before the deadline or grace period ends
• Ignoring BOIP single renewal reminder
• Letting your contact info go out of date
• Assuming a lapsed mark can be reinstated - it cannot.

You have a 6-month grace period with a late renewal fee. After that, your trademark is lost.

No. Restoration is not permitted. You must file a new application, and others may register the mark.

No. Proof of use is not required to renew your trademark in the Benelux region.

You must update your registration information with the BOIP before renewal.