IP Definitions

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office defines the following types of IP. For more detailed information, visit the CIPO website.

PATENTS
Covers new inventions (such as a process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter) or any new and useful improvement to an existing invention.

You cannot patent something that was previously invented by someone else and made public, whether they patented it or not. Also, public disclosure (e.g. distributing your product, selling it at a tradeshow, etc.) will prevent you from obtaining patent protection.

• Term: 20 years from filing date (in Canada)
• Filing Fee: $150 Small Entity; $300 Large Entity (Note: there are additional fees for maintenance, application completion, etc.)
• Legal Fees: $5,000 - $10,000

TRADE-MARKS
Are words, symbols or designs (or combination) used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from others in the marketplace (i.e. Coke bottle).

• Term: 15 years, renewal every 15 years thereafter (in Canada)
• Application Fee: $150
• Registration Fee: $200
• Renewal Fee: $300
• Legal Fees: $800 - $2,500

COPYRIGHT
Provides protection for artistic, dramatic, musical or literary works, and three other subject matters known as performance, sound recording and communication signal. Copyrighted works need to be signed, witnessed, and dated. Mailing it to yourself is unnecessary.

• Term: Life + 50 years (in Canada)
• Registration Fee: $65

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
Are visual features of shape, configuration, pattern or ornament (or any combination), applied to a finished article of manufacture.

• Term: 5 years from date of registration + 5 years upon payment of maintenance fees (in Canada)
• Filing Fee: $160
• Maintenance Fee: $215

INTEGRATED CIRCUIT TOPOGRAPHIES
Refer to the three-dimensional configuration of electronic circuits embodied in integrated circuit products or layout designs.

• Term: 10 years from filing date (in Canada)
• Filing Fee: $200

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