If your business trades in Jersey or Guernsey, review protection for each territory individually. Do not assume that a UK registration or a UK designation under the Madrid System answers every question about Channel Islands protection.
Jersey changed its system in August 2026
Jersey introduced its new primary trade mark registration system on 1 August 2026. It also became a separate designation under the Madrid System. New international filings need to identify Jersey separately where protection there is required.
Existing international registrations require a different assessment. WIPO’s transitional arrangements provide for Jersey designations to be recorded for qualifying earlier UK designations. The outcome depends on the date and status of the UK protection. Check the record before assuming either that protection is missing or that a fresh application is needed.
Guernsey has a separate system
Guernsey offers national and Madrid filing routes. Madrid coverage became available from 1 January 2021, so this is not a new change introduced at the same time as Jersey’s 2026 reforms.
The appropriate route depends on the rights already held, the mark and the business’s wider filing plans. Jersey and Guernsey should be considered separately when reviewing coverage and renewals.
What should a portfolio review cover?
- The territories in which you sell or plan to trade.
- The registered owner, mark and protected goods or services.
- Existing local registrations and international designations.
- The status of any transitional Jersey protection.
- Renewal dates and any changes to ownership or contact details.
Send us your registration details and commercial plans. We can help establish the current position and compare the steps needed for each territory.
Advice for your business
MW Trade Marks can coordinate international trade mark protection and help keep your portfolio aligned with your markets.
Contact us about trade mark protection in the Channel Islands.
Reviewed 26 September 2026. Sources: WIPO’s Jersey guidance; WIPO notice on Guernsey; Jersey registry announcement.