Contact us 
If you're planning to operate under a distinctive name or logo in Croatia, registering a trademark is the legal step that ensures your brand stays protected. With competition growing across Europe and internationally, formal registration secures exclusive rights to use the mark, keeps others from copying it, and helps your business build a strong identity in the market.
The process is straightforward but requires preparation. Once registered, your rights as the trademark holder are valid for ten years and can be extended without limit in ten-year increments. During that time, you have the legal authority to stop others from using anything too similar, seek compensation if your rights are violated, and license or transfer the trademark as part of a sale or commercial agreement.
Croatia’s laws apply the principle of national treatment. This means that foreign applicants—whether individuals or companies—can register a trademark under the same conditions as Croatian residents. You don’t need a local office or company in the country. However, working with a local IP attorney or authorized representative is often necessary, especially given the language and procedural requirements. A misstep in how goods and services are listed or a mistake in the application form can lead to a refusal from the trademark office.
Legal Framework and Regulatory Environment
Croatia’s trademark registration system is built on clear legal foundations designed to protect rights holders and streamline the process. The key legal instrument is the Law on Industrial Property, aligned with European Union standards. It outlines what can be protected, how to apply, what rights are granted, and what enforcement tools are available in case of disputes or infringement.
One major benefit for international applicants is the equal treatment they receive under Croatian law. Businesses and individuals from abroad don’t face additional restrictions—they can file applications, hold trademark rights, and enforce them just like any Croatian entity. This is especially attractive for investors or global companies entering the local market without establishing a permanent physical presence.
Another convenience is Croatia’s fully digital application system. The national IP office provides an online platform where applicants can submit forms, pay fees, and monitor the review process. This saves time, reduces paperwork, and allows for smooth interaction even if you're managing the process from abroad. It’s a widely used option among non-resident applicants who value speed and transparency.
What Can Be Registered as a Trademark in Croatia?
Not every name, symbol, or image can be registered as a trademark. Croatian law is specific about what qualifies for protection and what doesn’t. Before applying, it’s important to make sure the proposed mark meets the country’s legal standards. The rules are detailed, but the core idea is simple: a trademark must be unique, easy to identify, and capable of showing that a product or service comes from a specific source.
The most common types of trademarks are word-based. These include single words, combinations of words, personal names, short phrases, slogans, and letter-number codes. If you’ve created a catchy phrase or brand name, it likely fits here. Visual designs like logos, drawings, or symbols are also widely accepted — especially if they help customers recognize your business quickly.
It’s also possible to register a mixed mark that combines text with graphics, which is common in corporate branding. In fact, many Croatian trademarks fall into this category — a company name written in a stylized font, paired with an image or icon.
Beyond the usual types, Croatia’s trademark system also recognizes some less traditional formats. You can apply to protect the shape of a product or its packaging — like a unique bottle, jar, or box design — as long as the shape is distinctive enough to set your item apart. The key here is that the public should be able to connect that form with your brand, not just see it as a functional design.
There’s also room for more unusual marks, such as sound-based trademarks. If a specific tone, jingle, or audio cue reminds people of your product or service, and it's clearly recognizable, it may qualify. In rare cases, even animated visuals or multimedia files — like a looping video or digital motion — can be protected. But to register these, you need to submit your application in a very specific format, including audio or video files, plus a description that the examiners can clearly interpret and store in the official register.
What won’t be accepted? Generic words and common descriptions. If a term simply describes what the product is or does — like “fresh,” “European,” or “high quality” — it won’t meet the requirement for distinctiveness. Words tied to the item’s ingredients, purpose, or geographic origin are usually refused too, unless they’ve gained unique recognition through use over time.
The law also blocks symbols that could confuse or mislead consumers. For example, if a mark suggests a false origin or fake certification, it won’t be allowed. Trademarks that go against public decency, religious beliefs, or national ethics are automatically rejected as well. It’s also forbidden to use state symbols or emblems from international organizations.
If a sign seems too similar to an existing trademark or one that’s under review, it won’t be approved either. That’s why research before filing is crucial.
Interestingly, even a mark that doesn’t start off as distinctive can be accepted — but only if you can show that it became recognizable through extensive use. This is often the case for colors, sounds, or design patterns that became closely tied to a brand after years of marketing. A specific box color, a musical jingle used in ads, or a pattern on packaging might not seem unique at first — but with proof of public association, they can still earn trademark status.
Contact our experts and get answers to your questions.
Owner Responsibilities in Croatia
Owning a trademark in Croatia isn’t just about having your name on paper. Once it's registered, you're expected to take care of it. That means using it, updating records when things change, and keeping it alive. If you don’t, your rights can fade away — and someone else might claim what used to be yours.
The law is clear: a trademark must be used. Not once, but consistently. You can’t just register a name or logo and let it sit there collecting dust. If someone notices you haven’t done anything with it for five years straight, they can file a request to cancel it. And if you don’t have proof that you’ve been using it, you’ll likely lose it.
- Selling products with the brand clearly shown.
- Advertising the name online or in print.
- Printing it on boxes, bags, labels.
- Featuring it at trade shows.
- Letting others use it under a license.
It’s not enough to just say you've done these things — you need evidence. That could be photos, bills, contracts, marketing materials, or even a website screenshot.
There’s also the matter of time. Croatian trademarks last 10 years from the moment you apply. But after that, you have to renew them — and pay a fee. You’ll get a window to do this, but if you miss it and don’t act fast, your rights will simply expire. No automatic reminders. No second chances.
Last but not least: your info has to be up to date. If you move your office, change your company name, or restructure your business, you need to tell the Croatian IP office. Otherwise, you risk trouble down the line — especially if you ever need to enforce your rights or sell the trademark.
Trademark Eligibility Check in Croatia
Before submitting a trademark application in Croatia, it's smart — and necessary — to check whether your sign is even allowed. This isn’t just a quick glance at whether it looks nice. It’s a legal check that digs deep into how your mark stands against the rules. If you’re planning to operate in the Croatian or wider European market, this step is non-negotiable.
Croatian law outlines two groups of reasons why a trademark might be rejected: absolute and relative grounds. They’re not the same — and each comes with its own logic.
Absolute grounds are dealbreakers no matter what’s already in the trademark register. They’re based on the nature of the mark itself. If it uses generic or overly descriptive terms like “fresh,” “cheap,” or “Italian,” or it simply describes the product’s function, size, or origin, it won’t be accepted. Same goes for anything that’s misleading, offensive, or goes against public order or decency. The State Intellectual Property Office (DZIV) checks these things as part of its initial review. No one needs to file a complaint — this is done automatically.
Relative grounds, on the other hand, have to do with conflicts between your mark and others that already exist. But here’s the twist: DZIV doesn’t look for these on its own. Even if a nearly identical trademark is already registered, your application won’t be blocked unless someone steps in and files an objection.
That’s why once your application gets published, there's a window where other companies can oppose it. If they feel your sign is too close to theirs, they can act. So to avoid trouble, smart applicants search the local, EUIPO, and WIPO databases before applying. This kind of due diligence helps you catch problems early, not after money has already been spent.
Now, some business owners — especially small startups — ask whether it’s okay to use a trademark in Croatia without registering it. Technically, yes, you can use an unregistered sign. But it comes with real risks.
First, you don’t get full legal protection. If a competitor registers a similar mark before you do, you can’t stop them. Second, unregistered marks can’t be sold, transferred, or licensed. That limits their value as a business asset. Third, it’s very hard to defend an unregistered mark in court or during a dispute. You’ll likely lose if challenged.
In short, registration is the only reliable way to secure your brand in Croatia. Without it, you’re building on shaky ground.
How Long Does a Trademark Stay Valid in Croatia?
Once you’ve registered your trademark in Croatia and received official confirmation, you’re granted full rights over that mark. But like most legal protections, these rights come with an expiration date. In this case, the protection lasts 10 years, counted from the day your application was submitted — not from the day it was approved.
That means you can’t just register it and forget it. If you don’t renew your trademark when the time comes, it expires. And with it goes your legal shield — you’ll no longer be able to stop others from using similar names or symbols. That’s why keeping track of trademark timelines is just as important as registering them in the first place.
Croatian law lets you renew your trademark as many times as you need. Every renewal gives you another 10 years of coverage. There's no cap — the only condition is that you renew it on time and follow the required process.
So, when do you need to act? You can start the renewal process six months before your trademark’s 10-year term is up. If you miss that window, there’s still a six-month grace period after the expiration date. But be warned — waiting until then means paying extra fees. It’s better to plan ahead and submit early to avoid penalties and unnecessary stress.
renewing your trademark isn’t the only responsibility. If the mark isn’t actually used in business for five years straight, someone else can request to have it canceled. That could be a competitor or another company interested in the same name. Croatian law is designed to protect active, legitimate brands, not trademarks that just sit in the registry.
owning a trademark is an ongoing commitment. To keep it legally protected, you must (1) renew it on time and (2) keep using it in real-world business. If you do both, your brand can stay protected indefinitely.
Preparing Trademark Application Materials in Croatia
Getting your trademark registered in Croatia starts long before you hit “submit.” One of the most critical steps is preparing a clear, accurate, and complete description of your mark — along with a proper visual representation. Every element in your description should align with what’s shown in the sample. If there’s any mismatch or ambiguity, it can cause delays or even result in a rejected application. A properly formatted specimen helps the Croatian Intellectual Property Office (DZIV) carry out its review efficiently and ensures your mark is logged into the national register without issues.
Another key part of the application is listing the products or services you want the trademark to cover. Croatia uses the Nice Classification system — an internationally recognized structure that divides all goods and services into 45 categories. When you apply, you’ll need to assign your mark to the correct classes. This choice directly affects how your trademark is protected. Choosing too broadly may raise objections; being too narrow might limit your protection down the road. So it pays to review the classification system carefully and pick the ones that genuinely match your business operations.
Before submitting your application, it’s vital to check whether your proposed mark is actually available. A trademark search is your best tool to avoid future legal trouble. By checking existing registrations — both pending and approved — you can catch potential conflicts early. Croatia's IP office (DZIV), along with databases like EUIPO and WIPO, offer tools to search trademarks by name, class, and category. Conducting this search before filing helps you avoid duplication, tweak your application if needed, and reduce the risk of opposition or refusal. It’s not just a formality — it’s a strategic step.
As for the submission itself, you have two options: apply online via DZIV’s official portal or go the traditional paper route. The online system is faster, more reliable, and gives you real-time updates and confirmations. It also reduces paperwork errors and speeds up the review timeline. Paper submissions, on the other hand, require more effort — from physical mailing or in-person delivery to longer processing times and increased room for clerical mistakes.
Once the application is filed, you’ll usually get an acknowledgment within 2 to 4 working days. From there, your trademark enters the formal examination stage. This review phase typically lasts between 4 and 12 months, depending on the complexity of the application and whether any objections or oppositions arise. During this time, you may need to respond quickly to questions from the examiner or handle third-party challenges.
Lastly, be mindful of the fees. The cost of registering a trademark in Croatia depends on how many classes you include, the method of submission (online or paper), and whether you request any optional services. Planning your budget in advance and choosing your classes wisely will help you avoid surprises.
Trademark Infringement in Croatia: What Happens When Someone Crosses the Line
Registering your trademark in Croatia isn’t just a box to tick. It’s the legal key that unlocks your right to protect what’s yours. Once your mark is officially recognized, you’re not only allowed to use it in business — you also gain the power to stop others from misusing it. And when someone tries to ride on your brand’s reputation, whether intentionally or not, there are legal consequences. Croatia doesn’t just shrug it off.
The law takes infringement seriously. It doesn’t matter if someone copied your logo on purpose or just didn’t bother checking. Either way, the rights you gained through registration let you step in — and if needed, take the issue to court. The civil route is usually the first. A registered trademark owner can sue for a full stop to the unauthorized use. But that’s just the beginning. If the misuse damaged your business, cost you clients, or diluted your reputation, you can also demand compensation. That includes losses you can prove, profits they made using your brand, and even public recognition of the harm done — like having the judgment published to set the record straight.
But court isn’t the only way to act. Croatia has built-in administrative levers too, designed to move faster when time matters. If you report the violation to the country’s intellectual property office, customs, or market regulators, they can investigate and act without waiting on a judge. Sometimes that means pulling products off store shelves. Sometimes it’s about freezing ads, taking down online listings, or seizing suspicious goods. Fines are common — and not symbolic. For serious cases, they can easily climb into five figures, especially if the counterfeit goods were widely distributed or the violation was repeated.
Things escalate even more when the situation gets ugly. If someone’s running a business off your brand, selling fake items, printing lookalike labels, or pushing imitation pharmaceuticals or food, the law shifts gears. In cases like these, trademark infringement becomes a criminal matter. The public prosecutor can get involved, and the result might be property confiscation, a ban on doing business, or even prison time. This kind of response isn’t reserved for small-time errors. It’s for those who knowingly and repeatedly break the rules, especially when the counterfeit goods could put real people at risk.
In short, a registered trademark in Croatia gives you more than a nice certificate — it gives you leverage. It protects the name you built. It gives you a path to justice when someone oversteps. And it reminds the market that your brand has a legal backbone.
Transferring Trademark Rights in Croatia: How It Works and Why It Matters
Trademark ownership isn’t always static. Businesses grow, shift focus, restructure, or expand into new markets — and when that happens, the ability to transfer intellectual property becomes crucial. In Croatia, trademarks are treated as assets with real commercial weight. This means they can be sold, assigned, or partially transferred, just like any other valuable resource. Whether it’s part of a franchise rollout, a merger, or a strategic licensing deal, having the legal groundwork in place is essential — and Croatian law provides a solid framework for doing it right.
Under the national Intellectual Property Act and relevant provisions of the Civil Code, transferring a trademark requires more than a handshake. The mark in question must be fully registered — you can't transfer rights you don’t officially hold. The transaction itself needs to be formalized in writing, with all core terms clearly spelled out: who’s giving up the rights, who’s receiving them, what exactly is being transferred (full rights or specific classes), and when the agreement takes effect.
Transfers aren’t all-or-nothing. A company can assign rights to just part of its trademark — say, for a specific product line or a subset of goods listed under the Nice Classification. This gives businesses much-needed flexibility. For example, an IT startup might retain control over digital services while licensing its brand for physical product sales. But whether full or partial, the transaction must be properly documented and registered — otherwise, the buyer or assignee won’t have any standing to enforce their rights or defend the trademark in court.
Before signing anything, a thorough legal check is non-negotiable. You need to make sure the trademark is clean — free of encumbrances, litigation, third-party claims, or existing licenses. If the mark is tied up in an ongoing legal dispute or collateral agreement, you may need permission from creditors or licensees before proceeding. These background checks aren’t just a formality — they protect everyone involved from costly surprises later.
Final Thoughts
Getting your trademark registered in Croatia is more than a legal step — it’s a strategic decision that strengthens your brand, sets you apart in the marketplace, and gives your business long-term resilience. With the right preparation and guidance, you not only secure your name but also gain the ability to leverage it — through licensing, partnerships, or investment deals.
That said, the process can be complex. Navigating Croatian IP law, interpreting EU treaties, and dealing with administrative hurdles at DZIV (the national IP office) requires more than good intentions. That’s where our team comes in.
Our consulting firm helps international clients register, maintain, and protect their trademarks in Croatia from start to finish. We handle everything — from pre-filing strategy to documentation, government fees, expert follow-up, and final certification. You’ll never miss a deadline or lose coverage due to a technicality.
We also provide full support for trademark transfers, renewals, oppositions, and enforcement. Whether you're starting fresh or managing an existing brand, we make sure your IP works for you — legally, commercially, and long-term.
