South Africa Trademark Renewal

A trademark in South Africa is valid for 10 years from the application date and can be renewed indefinitely in further 10-year terms.

• Renewal window: 6 months before the expiration date
• Grace period: 6 months after the expiration date
• After grace period: The trademark will lapse, but restoration is possible at the Registrar discretion

• Power of Attorney (simply signed, no legalization required)
• Renewal fees and late fees (if applicable)
• Renewals are published in the monthly Patent Journal

• Restoration is possible after the grace period, if:
• The failure to renew was unintentional
• The application is filed with supporting evidence
• Restoration is at the Registrar discretion
• Third parties may re-register the trademark once it lapses

• The CIPC must notify the owner or agent about the pending lapse after the grace period ends
• Be proactive to avoid relying solely on official notices

Avoid:

• Waiting until the last moment to file
• Missing the 6-month grace period
• Not applying for restoration promptly with supporting evidence

You have 6 months after expiration to renew with a late renewal fee. After that, restoration is possible upon application and Registrar approval.

Yes, but only if the delay was unintentional, and your application is accepted by the Registrar.

No. Use is not required to maintain or renew a trademark in South Africa.

Submit updated details to the CIPC using the prescribed forms.

We handle all filings, monitor your deadlines, and manage restoration requests with the CIPC: keeping your brand protected without hassle.

Need help renewing your trademark in South Africa? Contact us today.