How to File a Trademark Yourself in Japan — DIY Guide
A practical guide for filing a trademark application with the JPO on your own, including the electronic filing system, required documents, and tips.
Prerequisites
To file a trademark yourself in Japan, you need a Japanese address (or a representative with one), a completed trademark search, your chosen Nice classes and designated goods/services, and the filing fees. Foreign applicants without a Japanese address must appoint a licensed patent attorney as their representative — self-filing is only available to those with a domestic address.
Electronic Filing System
The JPO's electronic filing system is called 'Internet Application Software' (インターネット出願ソフト). You need to register for a certificate-based digital ID. The software runs on Windows only, though you can also use the web-based J-PlatPat system for searches. Setup takes about 30 minutes if you already have your digital certificate.
Preparing Documents
Your application must include the trademark (image or text), the designated goods/services written in JPO-approved terminology, the applicant's name and address, and payment information. Use the JPO's 'List of Goods and Services' database to find the exact Japanese terms for your designated goods and services to avoid unnecessary office actions.
Submitting
After filling in the application form, review all fields carefully. Common errors include mismatched class numbers, incorrect character encodings for the trademark, and wrong fee calculations. Submit through the electronic filing system and save your receipt. The filing date is established upon successful submission, not when the fee is paid.
After Filing
After filing, you will receive an application number within a few days. Track your application status on J-PlatPat. If the JPO finds any formality issues, you will receive a notice to correct them. The substantive examination typically begins 6–12 months after filing. During this period, you can use the TM symbol (™) but not the registered symbol (®) until registration is complete.
Related Guides
Check your trademark availability
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Search Trademarks (Free)This tool provides preliminary trademark search results and general information only. It does not constitute legal advice. The accuracy of search results cannot be guaranteed. For trademark registration, please consult a licensed patent attorney (弁理士/benrishi). Shohyo Navi is a trademark information service operated by Mycat Inc.