Tuesday, March 5, 2024

An Overview of Official fees for patent applications

Protecting an invention with a patent is crucial for securing exclusive rights to your innovation.

 

At Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm, we are committed to providing transparent pricing for patents services in Tunisia.

 

Official costs associated with patent protection (All Taxes Included, in TND – Tunisian Dinars):

 

- Patent Application and First Annuity: 167,600 TND, TTC (Approximately 50 EUR, 53 USD)

- Claim Fee from the Eleventh: 36,100 TND, TTC (Approximately 11 EUR, 12 USD)

- Priority Fee: 36,100 TND, TTC (Approximately 11 EUR, 12 USD)

 

Exchange rates are subject to modification, and we use the exchange rate decided by our local bank.

 

Our client will be invoiced: Official Fees + Professional Fees.

 

We are committed to transparency and fair pricing.

 

If you choose to utilize our services, we will provide you with a detailed quote for our very competitive Professional fees based on your specific needs. 

 

Contact us today to discuss your patent protection requirements, Professional Fees and Official fees, and let us help you protect your innovation effectively.


You can contact us by email to: legalvision@proton.me

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

An Overview of Official fees for Trademark applications, and renewals:

Protecting a trademark is essential for any business looking to safeguard its brand identity.

At Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm, we are committed to providing transparent pricing for trademark services in Tunisia.

Official costs associated with trademark protection (All Taxes Included, in TND – Tunisian Dinars):

Trademark Application: 596 TND, (Approximately 177 EUR, 190 USD)
Trademark Renewal: 774 TND, (Approximately 230 EUR, 247 USD)
Additional Fees for Each Class of Products/Services:
Application: 119 TND, (Approximately 35 EUR, 38 USD)
Renewal: 178 TND, (Approximately 53 EUR, 57 USD)
Certificate of Registration Fee (at the time of issuance): 96 TND, (Approximately 29 EUR, 31 USD)
Fee for Filing an Opposition: 417 TND, (Approximately 124 EUR, 133 USD)


Exchange rates are subject to modification, and we use the exchange rate decided by our local bank.


Our client will be invoiced: Official Fees + Professional Fees. 


We are committed to transparency and fair pricing.


If you choose to utilize our services, we will provide you with a detailed quote for our very competitive Professional fees based on your specific needs.


Contact us today to discuss your trademark protection requirements, Professional Fees and Official fees, and let us help you protect your brand effectively.


You can contact us by email to: legalvision@proton.me 

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Copyright and Neighboring Rights in Tunisia

Intellectual property rights are essential for protecting the creations of artists, performers, and producers. In Tunisia, the legal framework for copyright and neighboring rights provides crucial protection for these creative works. Understanding these rights is fundamental for creators, performers, and producers to safeguard their works and receive fair recognition and compensation for their efforts.


Copyright in Tunisia


Copyright in Tunisia is governed by Law No. 94-36 of February 24, 1994, and subsequent amendments. It protects literary and artistic works, including books, articles, speeches, musical compositions, theatrical works, paintings, sculptures, and architectural designs.


Copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of the work and does not require registration. However, registration with the National Library of Tunisia is recommended as it serves as evidence of ownership in case of disputes.


The duration of copyright protection varies depending on the type of work. Generally, it lasts for the life of the author plus 50 years after their death. For collective works, anonymous works, or works published posthumously, protection lasts for 50 years from the date of publication.


Neighboring Rights in Tunisia


Neighboring rights, also known as related rights, protect the rights of performers, producers of phonograms and audiovisual works, and broadcasting organizations. These rights complement copyright protection and ensure that those involved in the creation and dissemination of creative works receive fair recognition and remuneration.


Performers enjoy neighboring rights for their live performances or performances fixed in audio or audiovisual recordings. These rights include the right to be identified as the performer, the right to object to any distortion of their performance, and the right to authorize or prohibit the broadcasting or communication of their performances.


Producers of phonograms and audiovisual works have neighboring rights over their recordings, including the right to authorize reproduction, distribution, rental, and making available to the public.


Broadcasting organizations also enjoy neighboring rights over their broadcasts, including the right to authorize or prohibit the fixation of their broadcasts, re-broadcasting, and communication to the public.

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Registering Plant Varieties in Tunisia

In Tunisia, registering plant varieties is a crucial step for breeders and farmers looking to protect their innovations and ensure their varieties meet specific standards of novelty, distinctiveness, uniformity, stability, and agricultural utility. This article provides an in-depth overview of the registration process, highlighting the importance of hiring a local intellectual property (IP) agent such as Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm to navigate the complexities of Tunisian intellectual property law.


Understanding Plant Variety Registration


Plant variety registration in Tunisia is governed by Law No. 99-42 of May 10, 1999, relating to seeds, plants, and plant varieties, along with its subsequent amendments and regulations. To qualify for registration, a plant variety must meet the following criteria:


1. Novelty:

The variety must be new and distinct from existing varieties.

2. Distinctiveness: 

The variety must be clearly distinguishable from other known varieties.

3. Uniformity: 

The variety must demonstrate uniform characteristics across multiple generations.

4. Stability:

The variety must maintain its distinctive characteristics after repeated propagation.


The Registration Process


1. Submission of Application:

The process begins with the submission of an application to the Evaluation, Registration, and Protection Service for Plant Varieties and International Relations.


2. Species Experimentation and Genetic Verification:

Specialized sectoral commissions conduct experimentation and verify the genetic characteristics of the variety.


3. Experimentation and Results Analysis:

The Technical Commission for Seeds, Plants, and Plant Varieties conducts further experimentation and analyzes the results.


4. Publication of Ministerial Decree:

Upon approval, the Minister of Agriculture and Hydraulic Resources issues a decree regarding the registration of the plant variety.


5. Inscription in the Official Catalog of Plant Varieties: 

The variety is then registered in the Official Catalog of Plant Varieties by the General Directorate for the Protection and Control of Agricultural Product Quality.


Importance of Hiring a Local IP Agent


Navigating the registration process for plant varieties in Tunisia can be complex, especially for non-domiciled individuals and businesses. Hiring a local IP agent is mandatory for non-residents and highly recommended for residents to ensure compliance with Tunisian law and expedite the registration process.


Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm is a leading IP law firm in Tunisia, specializing in plant variety registration and protection. Our team of experts can assist you in preparing and submitting your application, navigating the various stages of the registration process, and ensuring that your variety meets all legal requirements.


By hiring Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm as your local IP agent, you can benefit from our extensive experience and expertise in Tunisian intellectual property law. We understand the nuances of the system and can help you protect your plant varieties efficiently and effectively.


In conclusion, registering plant varieties in Tunisia is essential for protecting agricultural innovations and ensuring their commercial success. By hiring a local IP agent such as Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm, you can navigate the registration process with ease and protect your plant varieties from infringement. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in registering your plant varieties in Tunisia.

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Understanding Patent Law in Tunisia: A Comprehensive Guide

In Tunisia, protecting your inventions through patent registration is essential for securing exclusive rights to your innovations. However, navigating the intricacies of patent law can be challenging, especially for non-domiciled individuals and businesses. This article provides an in-depth overview of patent law in Tunisia, highlighting the importance of hiring a local intellectual property (IP) agent and the expertise of Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm in guiding you through the patent registration process.


What is an Invention?


An invention is a technical solution to a technical problem. It can be a new product or a new manufacturing process, and it can be protected by a patent.


What is a Patent?


A patent is a title of industrial property that grants its holder a temporary exclusive right to exploit the invention it covers.


Conditions for Patentability


1. Novelty: 

An invention is considered new if it is not part of the state of the art, which includes everything made available to the public before the date of filing the patent application.


2. Inventive Step: 

An invention must also involve an inventive step, meaning that it must not be obvious to a person skilled in the art, based on the state of the art at the time of filing the patent application.


3. Industrial Applicability: 

An invention must be capable of being made or used in any kind of industry or agriculture.


Exclusions from Patentability


Certain types of inventions are not considered patentable in Tunisia, including:


- Purely ornamental creations

- Discoveries and purely scientific theories, as well as mathematical methods

- Methods for the treatment of the human or animal body by surgery or therapy, as well as diagnostic methods practiced on the human or animal body

- Inventions contrary to public order, morality, public health, or the protection of the environment


How to File a Patent Application


Patent applications are filed with the Industrial Property Department of the INNORPI. The following documents are required:


- A request stating the title of the invention, the name and address of the applicant, the name and address of the inventor, and, if applicable, the name, first name, and address of the agent

- A description of the invention in duplicate, which must be clear and complete enough for a person skilled in the relevant field of technology to carry it out

- One or more claims in duplicate, specifying the novelty of the invention and based on the description, indicating the scope of protection sought by the patent

- One or more drawings, in duplicate if necessary for the understanding of the description

- An abstract of the invention, briefly stating its main technical features

- A power of attorney for the agent, (without legalization)

- Payment of the prescribed fees for filing


The Importance of Hiring a Local IP Agent


Due to the complexities of Tunisian patent law, non-domiciled individuals and businesses are required to hire a local IP agent to assist with patent registration. Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm is a leading IP law firm in Tunisia, specializing in patent registration and protection. Our team of experts can guide you through the registration process, conduct thorough patent searches, and ensure that your application meets all legal requirements.


By hiring Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm as your local IP agent, you can benefit from our extensive experience and expertise in Tunisian patent law. We understand the local nuances of the system and can help you navigate it effectively, ensuring that your patent is registered correctly and efficiently.


In conclusion, patent registration is crucial for protecting your inventions in Tunisia. By hiring a local IP agent such as Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm, you can ensure that your patent is registered properly and that your inventions are protected from infringement. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect your inventions in Tunisia.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

Trademark Registration process in Tunisia

In Tunisia, protecting your brand through trademark registration is a critical step in establishing and maintaining your presence in the market. Whether you're a local entrepreneur or an international business looking to enter the Tunisian market, understanding the trademark registration process is crucial. However, due to the complexities of Tunisian intellectual property law, it is imperative for non-domiciled individuals and businesses to hire a local intellectual property (IP) agent to navigate the process effectively.


What is a Trademark?


A trademark is a distinctive sign, such as a logo or a word, that identifies and distinguishes the products or services of one business from those of others. Registering your trademark provides you with exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered, helping you protect your brand identity and reputation.


Benefits of Trademark Registration in Tunisia


1. Exclusive Rights: 

Registration grants you exclusive rights to use your trademark in Tunisia for the goods or services for which it is registered, protecting your brand from infringement.


2. Legal Protection:

Registered trademarks are protected under Tunisian law, allowing you to take legal action against unauthorized use of your mark.


3. Brand Recognition:

A registered trademark enhances your brand's visibility and credibility, helping consumers identify and trust your products or services.


4. Asset Value: 

A registered trademark is a valuable asset that can increase the overall value of your business, especially in the event of a sale or licensing agreement.


The Trademark Registration Process in Tunisia


1. Trademark Search:

Before filing a trademark application, conduct a thorough search to ensure that your proposed mark is available and does not infringe on existing trademarks.


2. Filing the Application:

Submit your trademark application to the National Institute of Standardization and Industrial Property (INNORPI) in Tunisia, including a representation of the mark, a list of goods or services covered by the mark, and the applicable fees.


3. Examination and Publication:

The INNORPI will examine your application to ensure that it meets the requirements for registration. If approved, your mark will be published in the Official Industrial Property Bulletin.


4. Opposition Period: 

Following publication, there is a two-month period during which third parties can oppose your application if they believe it infringes on their rights.


5. Registration and Renewal: 

If no oppositions are filed and your application is approved, your trademark will be registered for a period of 10 years, renewable indefinitely.


The Importance of Hiring a Local IP Agent


Due to the intricacies of Tunisian intellectual property law, non-domiciled individuals and businesses are required to hire a local IP agent to assist with trademark registration, oppositions, renewals etc. Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm is a leading IP law firm in Tunisia, specializing in trademark registration and protection. Our team of experts can guide you through the registration process, conduct comprehensive trademark searches, and ensure that your application meets all legal requirements.


By hiring Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm as your local IP agent, you can benefit from our extensive experience and expertise in Tunisian trademark law. We understand the local nuances of the system and can help you navigate it effectively, ensuring that your trademark is registered correctly and efficiently.


In conclusion, trademark registration is a crucial step in protecting your brand identity in Tunisia. By hiring a local IP agent such as Legal Vision International Ennouri Law Firm, you can ensure that your trademark is registered properly and that your brand is protected from infringement. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect your brand in Tunisia.

Friday, October 20, 2023

INNORPI: Driving Innovation and Standardization in Tunisia's Industrial Landscape

In Tunisia, the Institut National de la Normalisation et de la Propriété Industrielle (INNORPI) plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's industrial landscape. Established in 1982 and governed by Law No. 2009-38 of June 30, 2009, the INNORPI is a public institution with legal personality and financial autonomy. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry, the INNORPI is tasked with promoting standardization and protecting industrial property rights. In this article, we will delve into the role and functions of the INNORPI, its impact on the Tunisian economy, and its contributions to the advancement of innovation and industrial development.


Mission and Mandate


The INNORPI's mission is multifaceted, encompassing several key objectives:


1. Standardization:

The INNORPI centralizes and coordinates all activities related to standardization in Tunisia. It collaborates with relevant organizations to develop a general program for the elaboration of standards and establishes technical standardization committees. Additionally, the INNORPI serves as the national information point on standards, providing essential information on current standards in Tunisia.


2. Certification of Conformity: 

One of the INNORPI's crucial roles is certifying the conformity of products, services, and management systems to established standards. This certification process ensures that products and services meet the required quality and safety standards, bolstering consumer confidence and facilitating trade.


3. Industrial Property Protection: 

The INNORPI is responsible for issuing patents for inventions, registering trademarks for goods, services, and industrial designs, and recording all acts affecting industrial property rights. By protecting intellectual property, the INNORPI encourages innovation and creativity in Tunisia's industrial sector.


4. International Representation: 

As Tunisia's representative, the INNORPI participates in various international organizations, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Arab Industrial Development and Mining Organization (AIDMO), the African Organization for Standardization (ARSO), and the European Patent Office (EPO).


Contributions to Industrial Development


The INNORPI's activities have far-reaching implications for Tunisia's industrial development:


1. Quality Assurance:

By certifying products and services, the INNORPI ensures that they meet internationally recognized standards, enhancing their competitiveness in domestic and international markets.


2. Innovation Support:

Through its patenting and trademark registration services, the INNORPI encourages innovation and creativity among Tunisian entrepreneurs and businesses. By protecting their intellectual property, the INNORPI incentivizes investment in research and development.


3. Trade Facilitation:

The INNORPI's certification of conformity to standards simplifies trade procedures, facilitating the export of Tunisian products to foreign markets. This, in turn, contributes to economic growth and job creation in Tunisia.


4. Harmonization with International Standards: 

By aligning its standards with international norms, the INNORPI promotes interoperability and compatibility of Tunisian products and services with those of other countries, fostering trade and economic cooperation.


Challenges and Future Outlook


Despite its significant contributions, the INNORPI faces several challenges:


1. Capacity Building: 

Enhancing the technical capabilities of its staff and stakeholders is essential for the INNORPI to effectively fulfill its mandate.


2. Public Awareness: 

Increasing awareness among businesses, entrepreneurs, and the general public about the importance of standardization and intellectual property protection is crucial.


3. Digital Transformation: 

Embracing digital technologies and modernizing its processes will enable the INNORPI to provide more efficient and effective services.


4. International Cooperation: 

Strengthening partnerships with international organizations and collaborating with other countries will enhance the INNORPI's ability to harmonize standards and protect industrial property rights.


In conclusion, the INNORPI plays a pivotal role in promoting standardization, protecting industrial property rights, and driving innovation in Tunisia. As the country continues its journey towards industrialization and economic development, the INNORPI's contributions will be instrumental in ensuring that Tunisia remains competitive in the global market.

An Overview of Official fees for patent applications

Protecting an invention with a patent is crucial for securing exclusive rights to your innovation.   At Legal Vision International Ennou...