What are the differences between a European Union Trademark (EUTM) and a national trademark?

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) manages trademarks and designs across the EU to support innovation.

A European Union Trademark (EUTM) provides similar benefits to national trademarks, protecting owners' rights to use their marks in commerce. EUTMs are more cost-effective to obtain and renew, with a simpler registration process compared to national trademarks, especially when considering the need for local registration in each territory. Additionally, EUTMs are valid throughout the entire EU, even if the EU expands, without requiring reapplication.

For businesses operating in a single region, a national trademark might be more advantageous as it can be more easily managed by a local attorney. If a mark is only used locally, obtaining an EUTM for exclusivity across all member countries can be challenged by any national trademark within the EU. If cancellation or invalidity proceedings are needed, those before national courts are generally more expensive than those before the EUIPO for an EUTM.