USPTO Swaps Specific Names for Generic Terms in Madrid Rules
Published Date: 7/15/2026
Rule
Summary
The USPTO is updating its rules to swap out specific electronic filing system names with more general terms for submitting international trademark applications under the Madrid Protocol. This change won’t affect how you file or any fees—it just makes the language clearer and easier to follow. The new rule kicks in on July 15, 2026, and applies to anyone filing international trademark paperwork from the U.S.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Fees paid to WIPO in Swiss francs
When you use the Madrid e‑Filing system to submit a U.S. office of origin international application, all fees are paid directly to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and will be charged in the Swiss franc equivalent of the U.S. dollar amount at the time of the transaction.
Mandatory trademark e‑filing and email
Starting July 15, 2026, all correspondence filed with the USPTO relating to international trademark applications and registrations originating from the U.S. must be submitted through the "trademark electronic filing system" and must include a valid email address for correspondence.
TEAS access preserved through Sept 2026
TEAS (the USPTO filing system) will remain available for filing U.S. office of origin international applications until at least September 2026 and for responses to notices of irregularity until all international applications originally filed through TEAS reach final disposition. Trademark Center will eventually replace TEAS.
Paper filings allowed by petition if e‑system down
If the trademark electronic filing system is unavailable or there is an extraordinary situation, an applicant or registrant required to file electronically may submit a petition to the Director under Sec. 2.146(a)(5) and (c) to accept the submission filed on paper.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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Starting July 31, 2026, U.S. trademark applicants can use the new Madrid e-Filing system to submit international trademark applications and fix issues faster. This system, run by WIPO and approved by the USPTO, makes filing smoother and lets the USPTO communicate directly with applicants to help correct problems. If you file trademarks internationally, get ready for a quicker, easier process—no extra fees announced yet!
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