Upcoming Changes To The Norwegian Trademark Act

The Norwegian Trademark Act (Nw. Varemerkeloven) is being amended to harmonize with the EU Trademark Directive (2015/2436/EC), with changes taking effect 1 March 2023. We have summarized some important changes below:

• Trademarks registered in black and white will no longer receive protection for all colors. Instead, protection will be limited to the colors represented in the application. Already registered trademarks and trademark applications filed prior to 1 March will, however, not be affected.
• Graphical representation will no longer be a requirement for registration. According to the upcoming amendments, it is sufficient that the sign is represented in a manner which enables the competent authorities and the public to determine the "clear and precise" subject matter of protection. This will allow for registration of trademarks that are difficult to represent graphically, such as sounds, holograms and three-dimensional figures.