Agreement Establishing an International Classification of the Figurative Elements of Marks

General Information

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What is it about?

The Vienna classification created by this Agreement is a standardized system used to classify the figurative elements of marks. It is inspired largely by the International Classification of Goods and Services for the Purposes of the Registration of Marks and the Agreement on International Patent Classification. Under the Vienna classification, a mark is examined for its figurative elements. These elements are then categorized, first broadly (such as human beings), then in specific divisions (men) and finally in even further revised sections (sailors). A code is then assigned. There are 29 categories, 144 divisions, 775 main sections and 1112 auxiliary sections. State parties are required to detail these marks in their official publications of mark renewal and classification. The Vienna Agreement has a technical character and is not concerned with trademark protection.

Why is it relevant?

The Vienna Classification allows State parties to register figurative elements using a single classification system. This procedure simplifies trademark searches and eliminates re-classification work when documents are exchanged at the international level. States no longer need to have their own national classification system or spend money to keep it updated.

Additional Information

This Agreement created a Union, which is composed of an Assembly, the International Bureau of WIPO and a Committee of Experts, responsible for deciding any changes to bring to the international classification.

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