In Albania a trademark is protected by registration with the General Directorate of Industrial Property (GDIP), under Law No. 52/2025 "On Trademarks". Without registration, protection is much harder.
1. Prior search. Before applying, you check whether there are identical or similar marks, registered or pending, for similar goods or services. This avoids oppositions and wasted costs.
2. Application. The application contains the applicant's details, the representation of the mark and the list of goods and services under the Nice International Classification. Applicants without a registered office or residence in Albania act through an authorised representative.
3. Examination. The GDIP checks whether the application is complete and whether there are grounds for refusal, for example when the mark lacks distinctive character or may deceive the public.
4. Publication and opposition. The mark is published in the official bulletin. Within the opposition period, owners of earlier marks can oppose the registration.
5. Registration. When there is no opposition, or the opposition is rejected, the mark is registered and the certificate is issued.
Renewal and use. Registration protects the mark for a set period and can be renewed. A mark that is not used for a long time risks being revoked, so its use should be documented.
When someone copies your mark. Follow the GDIP bulletin and oppose applications for similar marks in time. Against unauthorised use, you can ask the court to stop the use and award damages. Foreign companies can also extend their protection to Albania through international registration under the Madrid System.