EUIPO Releases 2026 Guidelines with Seven Key Changes

The European Union Intellectual Property Office issued the 2026 edition of its Guidelines for Examination of EU Trade Marks and Registered Community Designs. The new edition took effect on 1 July 2026 under Decision EX-26-09.

Key updates address geographical indications, opposition procedures, and other examination practices. The changes provide updated methodological approaches for examiners and practitioners handling EU trademark matters.

The guidelines serve as the operational reference for EUIPO staff and users. They reflect ongoing refinements without constituting legislative reform.

The official EUIPO summary highlights seven specific modifications of particular relevance to trademark portfolios.

Sources: https://www.dreyfus.fr/en/2026/08/05/2026-euipo-guidelines-european-union-trade-marks/ https://www.euipo.europa.eu/en/news/entry-into-force-of-the-2026-edition-of-the-guidelines-for-examination-of-eutms-and-euds