Trade Mark Search

Prior to applying to register a trade mark, it may be worthwhile to carry out a search to ascertain whether or not an identical or similar mark has already been registered or is the subject of a pending application. Any such mark will have priority, i.e. prior rights and this may be the basis for refusal of registration.

Both the National Trade Mark Database and the European Union Trade Mark Database should be searched. The National Trade Mark Database contains details of all trade mark applications filed with this Office and includes details of International registrations designating Ireland under the Madrid Protocol. A separate European Union Trade Mark database contains details of all applications for registration of European Union Trade Marks filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (formally OHIM). Registered European Union Trade Marks are protected in all 28 Member States the EU.

The Office will undertake a search on receipt of a written request accompanied by the appropriate fee (currently €35.00). A search is made in the National Trade Mark database and the European Union Trade Mark database.

These databases/registers may also be searched free of charge online or alternatively, by calling into our Information Centre in Kilkenny.  

It should be noted, however, that online access to the registers and database are for information purposes only. Whilst the Patent Office takes all reasonable care in the provision of these search facilities, the Office will not be liable for errors or omissions in the data or for any consequences arising from such errors or omissions, including any loss which may be incurred as a result of reliance on the accuracy or completeness of the data.