Trademark registration in Rwanda is best handled with the support of a company that has the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the process. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you protect your brand and secure your business identity with confidence.
Types of Trademarks You Can Register in Rwanda
Trademarks in Rwanda are regulated by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in accordance with Law No. 055/2024. This law allows businesses to register unique signs that help differentiate their goods or services from others in the market.
Common types of trademarks that can be registered include:
a) Word Marks: Brand names, words, letters, numbers, or acronyms.
b) Figurative/Device Marks: Logos, designs, and symbols.
c) Combination Marks: A mix of words and figurative elements.
d) Service Marks: Identifiers for service-oriented businesses.
e) Shape/Packaging Marks (Trade Dress): Three-dimensional shapes of products or their packaging.
f) Colour Marks: Distinctive colors or combinations of colors.
g) Collective Marks: Marks used by associations to distinguish their members’ goods/services.
h) Well-known Marks: Trademarks recognized by the public, offering enhanced protection.
Procedure for Trademark Registration in Rwanda
Follow these simple steps when registering a trademark in Rwanda:
1. Pay the Trademark Search Fee
Start by paying a search fee of about 5,000 RWF (approximately 5 USD). This helps confirm that no other business has already registered a similar trademark.
2. Apply for a Trademark Search
Submit your search request to the Office of the Registrar General at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to verify that your trademark is available.
3. File the Trademark Application
Once the name or logo is confirmed as available, select the correct trademark class for your business and submit your application.
4. Prepare the Required Documents
Ensure you provide the following:
• Company registration certificate
• Trademark search letter
• Payment receipts
• Completed application form
• Power of attorney (if needed)
• Trademark sample (logo or design)
5. Receive Your Trademark Certificate
After meeting all the requirements, the review process typically takes about 90 days. Once approved, you can collect your trademark certificate.
NOTE: A trademark is valid for 10 years starting from the date the application is filed. After this period, you can renew it for another 10 years by submitting a renewal application and paying the required fees. Contact us today to get started!
Cost of Registering a Trademark in Rwanda
Here is a quick breakdown of the cost:
• Trademark search: Approximately RWF 5,000 to confirm that the mark is available.
• First class registration: Around RWF 35,000 for the initial category of goods or services.
• Extra classes: About RWF 3,000 for each additional class you choose to register.
Afrisetup provides comprehensive assistance in the preparation and management of your trademark application, with fees aligned to the level of support we provide.
Who Can Register a Trademark in Rwanda?
a. Local Businesses and Individuals
Any Rwandan individual or locally registered company can apply for a trademark, regardless of business size.
b. Foreign Companies and Investors
Foreign entities can also register trademarks in Rwanda, usually through a local representative or consultant. This is especially useful for companies entering the East African market.
Why Trust Afrisetup with Rwanda Trademark Registration
1. We have in-depth knowledge of Rwandan trademark law
Our team is well-versed in Rwandan trademark law and regulations, and we remain up-to-date with any changes to ensure that you receive appropriate advice and guidance. We can help you with everything from trademark searches to application filing and responding to office actions.
2. We provide personalized service
We recognize that each client’s needs are unique, and we collaborate closely with each of our clients to deliver personalized solutions. We’ll take the time to understand your individual needs, whether you’re a small business owner or a multinational corporation, and tailor our services accordingly.
3. We offer competitive pricing
Trademark registration can be an expensive process, but we believe that it should be available to anyone. As a result, we offer cheap prices for our services without compromising quality. We think that our fees should be transparent, thus we will give you a complete breakdown of all costs up front.
4. We prioritize communication
We understand that trademark registration can be a difficult process, and we will keep you updated every step of the journey. We’ll be available to answer your questions and provide status updates on your application, so you’ll never be in the dark.
5. We prioritize communication
We understand that trademark registration can be a difficult process, and we will keep you updated every step of the journey. We’ll be available to answer your questions and provide status updates on your application, so you’ll never be in the dark.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re seeking for a trustworthy and professional partner for Trademark registration in Rwanda, look no further than Afrisetup. We are devoted to assisting you in protecting your brand in the county.
We are convinced that we have the expertise and knowledge to do so. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.