If you're filing a patent application in Canada and your invention includes more than one innovative idea, you may need to split your application. This is where divisional patent applications come in. In this guide, we explain what divisionals are, why they matter, and how to use them wisely—especially under...
If you're building a brand in Canada, choosing the right trademark is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A strong trademark doesn’t just help customers remember you—it protects your business legally and gives you the exclusive rights to grow with confidence. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five...
Amendments to Canada’s Trademarks Act and Regulations took effect April 1, 2025. These changes are part of the Government of Canada’s Intellectual Property Strategy. They give the Registrar of Trademarks new powers and improve trademark procedures. Main Changes at a Glance Here are the key updates that took effect today: New authority...
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is facing ongoing challenges with its new IT system. Their new system, MyCIPO Patents, was introduced to streamline the patent application process. Our firm is closely monitoring the situation to ensure our clients’ patent rights remain protected despite these delays. Understanding the Current Challenges The MyCIPO...
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office’s Trademarks Opposition Board has launched a new pilot project. This initiative aims to clean up the Register of Trademarks by removing inactive trademarks. Project Overview Starting January 2025, the Registrar will issue monthly section 45 notices on randomly selected registrations. These notices will target trademarks registered for...
Starting January 1, 2025, Canada will implement a Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) system. This change compensates for unreasonable delays in patent issuance, fulfilling obligations under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). PTA extends the standard 20-year patent term, ensuring inventors can fully benefit from their patents. Who Is Eligible for PTA? To qualify,...
November 1, 2024 - The delays in correspondence continue. For more information please see the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada’s latest update: click here. _________ October 10, 2024 - The Canadian patent industry is experiencing delays with...
The Canadian government is moving forward with plans to introduce a patent box regime, a tax incentive aimed at encouraging businesses to develop and commercialize intellectual property (IP) within Canada. In early 2024, public consultations were held to gather input from businesses, innovators, and stakeholders. The government is now reviewing...
Effective December 1, 2023, significant changes are coming to the Canadian Trademark Opposition Board's handling of opposition and Section 45 non-use cancellation proceedings. These changes aim to streamline the process and reduce the overall time taken for resolutions. Here’s what you need to know: Reduced Extension Times From December 1, 2023,...
The following are frequently asked patent questions and answers. These questions and answers are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute legal patent advice. What is a patent? A patent is a legal monopoly granted by the government to inventors for a certain period of time, in exchange for publicly...
