by Daniel Burkard (WIPO-Link and AI & Data Committee, TIMES Attorneys, Switzerland)

WIPO has announced that the 2026 version of the thirteenth edition of the Nice Classification will enter into force on 1 January 2026. The updated version is available on the WIPO website here. 

From that date, the International Bureau of WIPO will apply the new edition to all international applications received by the Office of origin on or after 1 January 2026, as well as to applications received by the International Bureau on or after that date, where the two-month period under Article 3(4) of the Madrid Protocol has been exceeded.

WIPO also confirms that, in line with its standing practice, there will be no reclassification of the lists of goods and services in international registrations dated prior to 1 January 2026.

The complete list of reclassified indications is available on the WIPO website here. Applicants are advised to review it carefully when preparing new applications, particularly where the basic application or registration was classified under the twelfth or earlier editions.

ECTA will continue to monitor updates to the Nice Classification and related Madrid System developments.