Overview

Application and register

The application turns a trade mark decision into a concrete request for protection. This section accompanies the way into the Liechtenstein trade mark register and explains which details, deadlines and decisions shape the later scope of the trade mark right.

Preparing the request for protection

An application requires the request for registration with details of the applicant, a representation of the trade mark and a list of goods and services. The goods and services must be specified precisely and grouped according to the Nice Classification. The selection should reflect the actual business model and specifically planned activities.1

Understanding priority and the procedure

As a rule, the filing date determines precedence in time. Under the statutory conditions, an earlier foreign application can be claimed as priority. The Office of Economic Affairs examines the application in accordance with the statutory requirements. However, registration does not remove conflicting earlier rights.2

Keeping the register up to date

In addition to the first application, register practice includes renewals, transfers, licences and changes of particulars. The registration is valid for ten years from the filing date and can be renewed for further periods of ten years. Deadlines and responsibilities should therefore be documented from the outset.3

Topics in this section

The articles cover the choice of applicant, the representation of the mark, lists of goods and services, priority claims, objections and the publication of the registration. In addition, there are notes on managing existing trade marks. The in-depth page on the application brings the individual steps together; the pages on searches and international protection complement the preparation.

Conclusion

A careful application lays the foundation for an appropriate scope of protection. Clear documents and reliable management of the register help to prevent avoidable gaps and missed deadlines.

Sources

  1. Art. 29 and 30 of the Law of 12 December 1996 on the Protection of Trade Marks and Indications of Source (Trade Mark Protection Act; MSchG), LGBl. 1997 No. 60, LR 232.11, version of 1 July 2026.

  2. Art. 3, 6–9 and 31 MSchG.

  3. Art. 10, 17 and 19 MSchG.

  4. Art. 8–14 of the Ordinance of 1 April 1997 on the Protection of Trade Marks and Indications of Source (Trade Mark Protection Ordinance; MSchV), LGBl. 1997 No. 77, LR 232.111, version of 1 July 2026.

Last updated: 13 September 2026

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