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ARTICLE · 15 JULY 2026

UK Madrid Designations And Jersey: Preparing For Upcoming Changes

Marks & Clerk
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The Madrid Protocol has long offered UK-based trademark holders automatic protection in Jersey through UK designations, but this convenient arrangement is about to end. Starting August 1, 2026, Jersey will become an independent designatable territory under the Madrid system, fundamentally changing how international trademark registrations must be structured and maintained for Channel Islands coverage.

United KingdomIntellectual Property

The scope of protection offered by a UK designation of a Madrid Protocol registration will shortly be changing due to an upcoming development in the intellectual property laws of Jersey. 

The Madrid Protocol, often referred to as an International Registration or an IR, is a popular way of securing trade mark protection in multiple jurisdictions due to its cost efficiency and central administration through the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO). 

Currently, a UK designation of an International Registration will automatically extend protection to include coverage for Jersey, unlike national UK trade marks which currently require local re-registration in Jersey to have effect there.

However, this position is set to change from 01 August 2026. An overview of the upcoming changes is included in the table below. 

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