The short answer
The DPDT will not process an IP application filed through an agent without a valid Power of Attorney. For trademarks, a scanned signed POA is enough, filed with the application. For patents, designs and utility models, an original is required within 3 months of filing. For litigation and appeals, the POA must be legalised or apostilled before you start.
POA rules at a glance
| Matter | POA format | Legalisation | Timing | New agent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trademark | Scanned signed copy | Not required | With the application, no grace period | New POA and fee |
| Patent, design, utility model | Original signed copy | Not required for routine filings | Within 3 months after filing | New POA and fee |
| Litigation and appeal | Original signed copy | Required: embassy or apostille | Before filing legal action | New POA and fee |
Trademark filing and opposition
A scanned copy of the signed original is accepted, with no notarisation or legalisation. It must accompany the application and cannot be added later. The one-time POA fee is USD 15, included in the filing cost.
Patents, designs and utility models
The DPDT requires an original signed POA. A scan is not enough, but you have 3 months from the filing date to submit the original. Legalisation is not required for routine filings.
Litigation, appeals and legal proceedings
Legalise first. For appeals and enforcement, a POA that is not legalised through the Bangladesh Embassy or High Commission, or by apostille, will be rejected. The case can be dismissed or treated as unfiled.
Changing your agent
Prepare a new POA
- Signed by an authorised signatory in favour of the new agent
Pay the POA fee again
- The fee is per agent appointment, not per case
File it at the DPDT
- This records the agent change and activates the new agent's authority
Example: a company that filed through Agent A and appoints Agent B for an appeal must sign a fresh POA and pay the fee again. For document routes see legalisation and apostille.
Power of attorney questions
Do I need to notarise a trademark POA?
No. A scanned signed copy is enough.
When must a patent POA original arrive?
Within 3 months after filing.
Does my old agent's POA cover a new agent?
No. A new POA and fee are required.
Need help with a trademark dispute or filing?
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