As of March 27, 2020, the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (“CIPO”) has announced that although it remains open, clients should expect significant delays in all CIPO services.

Any deadlines fixed under the Trademarks Act falling between March 16, 2020 and April 30, 2020 will be extended to May 1, 2020. This deadline extension is a helpful cushion for Canadian brand owners that are currently dealing with this crisis.  We are mindful that intellectual property offices globally are adopting differing responses to COVID-19, and we are coordinating closely with our international colleagues to address any impacts on global filings as appropriate.

CIPO has also announced that until at least April 30, 2020, they will not be fulfilling orders for intellectual property documents.  New orders will be accepted, but we expect there will be a backlog of orders once the service resumes.

The online Canadian trademark filing system is still active and available – for the time being we are still able to file new trademark applications and respond to CIPO through this system. CIPO is encouraging that all correspondence proceeds through the online filing system, including responses to office actions.

We will continue to review the CIPO status and will provide updates as new information arises. Our team at Cunningham Swan remains available to assist with any questions you have regarding your trademarks. Please send any inquiries you have to: [email protected].