Registering Trademarks and Patents in Colombia

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Colombia’s industrial property system follows the common rules of the Andean Community (Decision 486), shared with Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. Rights are still national: a Colombian registration protects you only in Colombia.

1. Trademarks

• Authority: the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce (SIC).
• Routes: a national application (multi-class filings are allowed) or an international registration designating Colombia under the Madrid Protocol.
• Procedure: formal review, publication in the Industrial Property Gazette, a 30 business-day opposition period and substantive examination. Without oppositions, registration often takes around six to eight months.
• Andean opposition: owners of a mark in another Andean country can oppose a Colombian application, provided they file in Colombia too.
• Term and use: 10 years, renewable. A mark not used for three consecutive years can be cancelled.

2. Patents and utility models

• Invention patents: 20 years from filing.
• Utility models: 10 years, for new shapes or arrangements that improve the function of an object.
• Routes: national filing, Paris Convention priority within 12 months, or PCT national phase. The SIC participates in Patent Prosecution Highway programmes that can speed up examination.

3. Industrial designs

Industrial designs are protected for 10 years from filing. Novelty is required, so file before showing the product publicly.

4. Practical tips

• Search the SIC database and file before appointing a distributor or importer.
• If you also sell in Peru or Ecuador, coordinate filings across the Andean Community.
• Foreign applicants should act through a Colombian attorney with a power of attorney.
• Keep evidence of use and monitor the Gazette for conflicting marks.

The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily represent the position of NET CRAMAN. This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Rules change over time; seek specific advice before acting.