Conversions
Conversion is a procedure that can be applied to European Union trade marks (EUTMs) and to international registrations (IRs).
If an EU trade mark ceases to exist, it can be converted into trade marks that are valid in certain Member States. Conversion is particularly useful for overcoming possible problems with the EUTM's unitary character.
For example, if the European Union trade mark faces a registrability problem in only one or certain countries on absolute grounds or due to an opposition based on an earlier right valid in only one country or certain countries, the EUTM applicant can apply to convert the EUTM into individual, national trade mark applications in the other countries not affected by these grounds.
International registrations can be converted into national trade mark applications of EU Member States and into a designation of contracting parties to the Madrid Agreement or the Madrid Protocol of the World Intellectual Property organization (WIPO).
For more information, please consult our Guidelines on trade marks.