Q1360. Can I file an international trademark from Thailand via the Madrid Protocol?

Answered by the NYC Visa & Translation team

Yes. Thailand is a member of the Madrid Protocol, so a person or business based in Thailand can file one international application through the Thai Department of Intellectual Property, designating the member countries where protection is sought. Benefits: cheaper than filing country by country, with centralised renewal and changes. Key conditions: (1) you need a base application or registration in Thailand; (2) protection in each country still depends on that country's IP office examination and can be refused locally; (3) during the initial statutory dependency period, the international registration is tied to the Thai base — if the base is cancelled, the whole registration can be affected; (4) countries outside Madrid require direct national filings. Our team advises whether your target markets are better served via Madrid or direct filing. This is general guidance; requirements and fees change — always verify with the Department of Business Development, the Department of Intellectual Property, or the Revenue Department before proceeding.