IT & SaaS — Trademark Registration Guide for Japan
Trademark guide for software companies, SaaS providers, and IT businesses in Japan. Covers classes for software products, cloud services, and technology consulting.
Essential Classes
2 classes
Recommended Classes
2 classes
Min. Filing Cost
¥20,600~
Gov. fees only / 2 classes
Essential Classes
These classes are the minimum requirement for IT & SaaS businesses in Japan.
Recommended Classes
Consider these classes as your business grows and expands.
Optional Classes
Consider these for future business expansion.
Trademark Filing Tips for IT & SaaS
- Class 9 covers downloadable software and apps. Class 42 covers SaaS, cloud computing, and software development services.
- If your SaaS includes communication features, Class 38 (telecommunications) should be considered.
- Class 35 is recommended if you provide business management software or data analytics services.
Common Mistakes
- Registering only Class 9 (goods) for a SaaS product that should primarily be in Class 42 (services).
- Forgetting Class 38 for messaging, video conferencing, or communication-related software features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is software classified as goods or services in Japan?
Downloadable software is classified as goods (Class 9), while SaaS and cloud-based software are classified as services (Class 42). Many software companies need both classes.
Do I need a Japanese trademark for a globally available SaaS?
If you have Japanese users or plan to market in Japan, a Japanese trademark registration is strongly recommended. Japan follows a first-to-file system, so early registration prevents others from claiming your brand.
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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.