Fast-Tracking Trademark Registration for VMC Purposes: Is It Possible?

A registered trademark is a non-negotiable requirement for obtaining a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC), which allows your brand logo to appear in email inboxes. Standard trademark registration can take months or even years, so many organizations seek ways to accelerate the process for faster VMC eligibility.

• European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) Fast Track: The EUIPO offers a Fast Track process for trademark applications that meet specific conditions. If you select goods and services from the Harmonised Database and pay upfront, your application can be published in as little as three weeks (compared to the standard 6-8 weeks). However, the total registration time still includes a three-month opposition period, so final registration typically takes about 3.5 months.
• Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP): The BOIP allows applicants to request a fast-tracked registration during the filing process, potentially accelerating the timeline for publication and registration.
• India’s Expedited Examination: India offers an expedited trademark registration process, where examination can occur within 3-4 months of filing (compared to the standard 18-24 months). This requires a formal request and an additional fee, and is available for applicants who can demonstrate urgency.
• United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO generally processes applications in the order received, with standard timelines of 8-12 months. Expedited examination is rare and only granted under special circumstances, such as ongoing litigation or infringement. A “Petition to Make Special” can be filed, but approval is not guaranteed and is subject to strict criteria. As of April 2025, expedited examination for design applications has been suspended due to high demand and fraud concerns.

• Eligibility: Fast-track options are only available for certain types of marks (not collective or certification marks) and may require the applicant to be domiciled in the relevant region or appoint a representative.
• Goods and Services: For EUIPO Fast Track, all goods and services must be selected from the Harmonised Database.
• Upfront Payment: Immediate payment of fees is required for fast-track processing.
• Opposition Period: Even with fast-track examination, a mandatory opposition period (usually three months) applies before final registration.
• No Extra Cost (EUIPO): Fast Track at EUIPO does not cost more than standard applications, but you must meet all requirements.

• Use fast-track or expedited options where available: Take advantage of fast-track or expedited processes and ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Select goods and services from pre-approved lists: Choose from pre-approved lists (such as the Harmonised Database) to streamline your application and minimize the risk of objections.
• Respond promptly to office actions or requests for information: Address any office actions or additional information requests quickly to keep your application moving forward.
• Monitor your application for oppositions: Regularly check the status of your application and respond to any oppositions or challenges as soon as possible.
• Consult with a trademark attorney: Work with a trademark attorney to avoid common pitfalls and maximize your chances of a smooth and successful registration process.

Find more answers in our VMC and BIMI FAQ section.

Fast-tracking trademark registration for VMC is possible in some regions—choose the right office, meet all requirements, and act quickly to maximize your chances of rapid approval.