Is a trademark clearance search mandatory?

No. In Türkiye, having a clearance search carried out before filing a trademark application is not a legal requirement. It is, however, recommended so that possible refusal and dispute risks can be assessed in advance.

Does a clearance search make registration certain?

No. The search provides a risk assessment based on accessible records and the information available on the date of the review. The final outcome of registration depends on TÜRKPATENT’s examination, any oppositions and the applicable legal conditions.

Can the same mark be registered in different sectors?

In some cases, yes. However, being in different Nice classes alone does not mean there will be no legal conflict between the marks. The similarity of the goods and services, the reputation of the marks and other legal conditions are assessed together.

How long does a trademark search take?

The duration depends on the nature of the mark, the number of classes to be reviewed, the density of similar trademark records and whether the search is national or international in scope.

Can only the brand name be searched, or the logo too?

Both word marks and marks containing figurative and logo elements can be searched. Searches for visual marks may require different review methods.

Is the trademark clearance search a paid service?

Fees may vary depending on the scope of the search and the level of detail of the legal assessment requested. The scope of the service and the fee information can be set out before you proceed.

If the mark is found suitable, can it be used right away?

A positive search result does not mean that using or registering the mark is definitively without legal issues. The result should be assessed with its scope and any other existing rights in mind.

Trademark Clearance Search

FOR A SAFE STARTClearance search

Find out the possible risks before you register your trademark.

ExampleLUMİYAExample mark 1

ExampleLUMIAExample mark 2

LUMİYA and LUMIA differ by only one letter; they are written almost identically.

We research, from a legal perspective, how similar your brand name and any logo are to other marks for the relevant goods and services, and assess the results for you.

Search scope

It is not just a name check.

A trademark clearance search is more than listing records with the same name.

A trademark clearance search is more than listing records with the same name. The visual, phonetic, conceptual and graphic similarities of your mark are assessed together with the relevant goods and services. The findings are analysed in light of legal experience and the legislation, and you receive a guiding assessment of possible risks before filing your application.

What is reviewed?

AaIdentical marksMarks that are identical or nearly identical.
Spelling and pronunciationMarks written differently but read alike.
Visual and logo similarityLogo, figurative and design elements.
Goods and servicesThe relevant Nice classes and fields of activity.
DistinctivenessThe distinctive character of the mark and descriptive terms.
Legal risksConflict and opposition risks under the Industrial Property Law (SMK).

How do we proceed?

Step 1 / 5Trademark detailsWe take your brand name, any logo, your field of activity and your target market.

Take the first stepLeave your brand name and our expert team will contact you.

vs. name check

The difference between a name check and a clearance search

Name check

Lists identical or similar records in the database.
Mostly considers only the word element.
Does not include a legal assessment of the results.

Clearance search

Assesses the results for visual, phonetic, conceptual and graphic similarity.
Takes the scope of goods and services into account.
Interprets the results legally and gives guidance on possible risks.

The absence of an identical record in the database does not mean the mark can be registered.

Target markets

Searches for your target market

Trademark rights are territorial; a registration in Türkiye does not provide the same protection in other countries. If you plan to register abroad, searches can also be carried out for your target countries.

Türkiye
International
European Union
United States

Who needs it?

Entrepreneurs starting a new company or brand
Businesses building an e-commerce brand
Producers launching a new product or service
Brands setting up franchise or dealership systems
Companies expanding abroad and exporting
Businesses considering a change of brand name

SEARCH SCOPE