I want to use my trade mark in countries other than the United Kingdom; do I need to apply directly to the Trade Mark Office in each country?

You can use a single application system to apply for an International trade mark (for certain countries throughout the world), or a Community trade mark (for protection in Europe) Both these single application systems cover many countries including the United Kingdom.

The International Route - You can apply to register your trade mark through the International route in countries which are party to the Madrid Protocol through the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). Currently more than 70 countries are members, including the United States of America, Australia and members of the European Union (EU).

The European Route - You can apply for a European Community trade mark through the European route via the Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (trade marks and designs) (OHIM). The Community trade mark gives protection in all European Union (EU) countries.