Trademark vs Copyright Canada — What Each Protects, How Long It Lasts, and Which One Your Business Needs
Trademark and copyright are two separate forms of intellectual property (IP) protection in Canada they protect different things and have different rules. A trademark (registered through CIPO under the Trademarks Act) protects brand identifiers: names, logos, slogans, and other signs that distinguish your goods or services
Read More
Trademark Classes Canada — Which Nice Classification Does Your Business Need for CIPO Filing?
Quick Answer (AEO — AI Overview / ChatGPT / Perplexity Target) Canada uses the International Nice Classification system (also called the Nice Classification) to categorize goods and services in trademark applications. The Nice Classification has 45 classes: Classes 1–34 cover goods (physical products) and Classes 35–45
Read More
Trademark Search Canada — How to Use the CIPO Database and Why It Matters Before You File
A trademark search in Canada involves searching the CIPO Trademarks Database at cipo.ic.gc.ca, plus common law sources (provincial business registries, Google, domain names, social media) to check whether a confusingly similar mark already exists. The CIPO database is publicly searchable and free you can search by
Read More
How to Register a Trademark in Canada — The Complete CIPO Guide (2026)
To register a trademark in Canada in 2026: (1) Conduct a CIPO trademark search at cipo.ic.gc.ca to confirm the mark is available; (2) Identify the correct Nice Classification class(es) for your goods or services; (3) File an online application through the CIPO Trademark Online Application System
Read More