International Trademark Registration via Madrid Protocol: Jordan and Beyond
Learn how to use the Madrid Protocol for international trademark protection, including how Jordanian businesses can extend protection abroad and how foreign businesses can designate Jordan.
6/5/20264 min read
For businesses operating across multiple countries, filing separate trademark applications in each jurisdiction can be costly and time-consuming. The Madrid Protocol offers an efficient alternative, allowing trademark owners to secure protection in multiple member countries through a single international application. Jordan has been a member since 2010.
For the basics of domestic trademark registration in Jordan, see our step-by-step guide at how to register a trademark in Jordan. For document requirements including how to specify goods and services, see our checklist at documents required for trademark registration in Jordan.
What Is the Madrid Protocol?
The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty providing a centralized system for registering trademarks in multiple jurisdictions. Administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization in Geneva, the system allows a trademark owner with a pending application or registration in their home country to extend protection to any member country by filing a single international application.
As of 2026, the Madrid Protocol has over 130 member countries. Jordan acceded in 2010, and the system has become increasingly popular for both Jordanian businesses seeking international protection and foreign businesses entering the Jordanian market.
How the Madrid System Works
The system operates through a three-step process. First, the applicant must have a pending trademark application or existing registration in their home country, serving as the basis for the international application. This basic mark must be identical to the mark sought internationally. Second, the applicant files through their home country's trademark office, designating target countries. Third, WIPO examines for formalities and, if compliant, records the mark and publishes it.
Each designated country then examines the application according to its domestic laws. If no refusal is issued within twelve or eighteen months depending on the country, the mark is considered protected there. In Jordan, examination follows the same timeline as national applications, typically seven to twelve months.
Expert Tip:The Madrid system creates a bundle of national rights dependent on the basic mark for five years. If the basic mark is cancelled within this period, the international registration may be affected.
Filing an International Application Designating Jordan
Foreign businesses must first have a basic application or registration in their country of origin (which must also be a Madrid member). The international application is filed through the origin country's trademark office, which certifies and forwards it to WIPO. The application must designate Jordan and include the same mark and same or narrower list of goods and services.
For help selecting the right classification for your goods or services, refer to our guide on understanding trademark classes in Jordan. Fees for designating Jordan include a WIPO standard fee plus Jordan's individual fee for examination and registration.
Filing a Jordanian Base Application for International Registration
Jordanian businesses can extend protection of their Jordanian trademark to other member countries. The process begins with a national application or registration with the IPPD. An international application is then submitted through the IPPD designating any number of Madrid member countries. The IPPD certifies that the international application corresponds to the basic application and forwards it to WIPO.
Advantages of the Madrid Protocol
• Cost efficiency: a single application is substantially less expensive than filing in each country separately.
• Administrative simplicity: one application in one language with one set of fees in one currency.
• Centralized management: renewals, ownership changes, and name/address changes recorded centrally through WIPO take effect in all designated countries.
• Flexibility: you can add designations over time as your business expands into new markets.
Limitations and Considerations
The five-year dependency period means the international registration is vulnerable to the basic mark's status for the first five years. If the basic application is refused or registration cancelled, the international registration may be centrally attacked. Not all countries are members, so some markets still require national filings. The goods and services must correspond to or be narrower than those in the basic mark.
Madrid Protocol vs. National Filing in Jordan
For businesses already filing internationally through Madrid, adding Jordan as a designation is straightforward. For businesses whose only interest is Jordan, a national filing may be simpler and potentially faster. National filings offer direct communication with the local office, local legal representation throughout, and potentially faster examination. The best approach depends on your overall trademark strategy.
At Haj Hassan & Associates, we advise clients on the optimal filing strategy. Learn more about our trademark registration services or contact us for personalized guidance on Madrid Protocol filings.
Responding to Provisional Refusals from Jordan
When Jordan examines an international application, it may issue a provisional refusal if grounds exist under Jordanian law. The refusal is transmitted through WIPO to the applicant, who can respond directly or through a local agent. Responding requires expertise in both the Madrid system and Jordanian domestic law. Working with a local trademark attorney is essential for successfully overcoming provisional refusals.
Key Takeaways
• Jordan joined the Madrid Protocol in 2010, making international registration available.
• You need a basic application/registration in your home country first.
• Centralized filing through WIPO can protect your mark in 130+ countries.
• The 5-year dependency period is the main risk to understand.
• Provisional refusals require local expertise to overcome.
Related Articles and Resources:
How to Register a Trademark in Jordan
Documents Required for Trademark Registration in Jordan
Understanding Trademark Classes (Nice Classification) in Jordan
Need Expert Help with Your Trademark? Contact Haj Hassan & Associates for professional trademark registration and protection services in Jordan and throughout the MENA region. Visit www.hajhassanlegal.com or reach out through our contact page. Our experienced IP team is ready to guide you through every step of the process.