Application success rate at Sweden’s PRV: 5-year overview
From 2019 to 2023, Sweden maintained a solid average trademark registration success rate of 76.04%. Approval rates remained relatively stable throughout the period, with a slight decline observed in 2023. Nevertheless, Sweden continues to perform well above the global average, making it an attractive jurisdiction for brand protection.
Applications filed in | Registered | Filed | Success rate |
|---|---|---|---|
2019 | 6,366 | 8,216 | 77.48% |
2020 | 6,741 | 8,690 | 77.57% |
2021 | 6,566 | 8,675 | 75.69% |
2022 | 5,056 | 6,680 | 75.69% |
2023 | 4,702 | 6,445 | 72.96% |
Total (average) | 29,431 | 38,706 | 76.04% |
Comparison to regional and global averages
With a 76.04% success rate, Sweden stands out as a dependable jurisdiction for trademark registration. It performs significantly above the global average, falling slightly short of the major IP offices like the EUIPO (71.66%) but significantly above the USPTO (56.91%).
In a regional context, Sweden’s PRV compares favorably with its Nordic and European counterparts. It is slightly ahead of neighboring Norway (79.48%) and Denmark (80.03%), and maintains a similar range to countries like Finland (79.06%) and Germany (76.84%), reflecting the region’s generally strong IP frameworks.
Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
Sweden | PRV | 76.04% |
Norway | NIPO | 79.48% |
Denmark | DKPTO | 80.03% |
Finland | PRH | 79.06% |
The European Union | EUIPO | 90.80% |
Several factors contribute to Sweden’s positive trademark performance:
Predictable and transparent examination
PRV is known for its straightforward and accessible application process. As a member of the Madrid System, Sweden offers harmonized procedures in line with international best practices, helping applicants navigate their filings with confidence.
Reasonable substantive examination
While PRV performs a full examination of applications—including assessments of distinctiveness and prior rights—its approach is generally pragmatic and fair. Applicants who prepare thoroughly often find the process smooth and predictable.
Declining but manageable filing volumes
Trademark filings in Sweden have gradually declined over the last five years, from 8,216 in 2019 to 6,445 in 2023. This has helped maintain examiner efficiency and ensured timely processing, even as the Office continues to uphold rigorous quality standards.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Sweden
Despite a respectable success rate of 76.04%, registering a trademark in Sweden still requires thoughtful preparation and a solid understanding of PRV procedures. To boost your chances of approval, it’s essential to begin with a trademark clearance search to uncover any potential conflicts. Be sure your mark is distinctive, non-descriptive, and accurately reflects your brand’s scope of goods and services.
Collaborating with a qualified trademark attorney is one of the most effective strategies to secure a successful outcome. A lawyer can help draft your application, respond to office actions, and guide you through the finer points of Swedish trademark law.
If you are currently preparing to submit your first trademark application, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to strengthen your chances of success, with multiple pieces of advice directly from our trademark lawyers with years of experience. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to receive expert feedback on your trademark and guidance on the best steps forward.
