The Intellectual Property Department of Hong Kong has updated its IP registration process. Starting June 28, 2024, the Hong Kong Trademarks Registry will issue electronic certificates for trademarks, patents, and designs to registered e-filers, replacing traditional paper certificates. This initiative promotes sustainability, boosts efficiency, and ensures secure delivery of IP documents.

This change applies to:

• Trademark applications published on or after March 15, 2024;
• Patent applications published for grant on or after June 28, 2024;
• Design applications published on or after June 28, 2024.

The HK IPD can provide a paper Certificate of Registration upon request if an e-filer prefers it over an electronic certificate, as long as a written request is submitted within the following timeframes:

• For trademarks: within six weeks of the publication notice;
• For patents: within two weeks of the grant publication notice;
• For designs: within two weeks of the acceptance notice.

If you have any inquiries regarding intellectual property matters, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].