Deadline for Re-filing IP Rights Applications in Montenegro Expires in May

PODGORICA - Serbian patent, trademark and design applications which were pending on the date the Montenegro Intellectual Property Office (IPO) began its operations, May 28, 2008, must be re-filed in Montenegro by May 28, 2009, to maintain the original filing date, according to SD PETOSEVIC.

Serbian registrations continue to be valid in Montenegro until their expiration date, without the need for re-registration. While the re-registration is not mandatory, IP rights holders are advised to apply for a certificate of registration to document their rights in this new jurisdiction.

The Montenegrin certificate of registration would be needed during enforcement procedures.