Guide · Clearance

How to search for trademarks in Mexico before you file

A two-minute search on IMPI's database tells you whether an identical mark exists. Clearing a mark takes more than that. Here's the difference.

By the Carigalta IP team, intellectual property counsel in Mexico · Updated October 2026 · 5 min read

The short answer

You can search Mexican trademarks in MARCia, IMPI's free official database (marcia.impi.gob.mx), which lists registered and pending marks with owner, class and status. But a clean result for an identical name doesn't mean the mark is available: IMPI refuses marks that are confusingly similar to earlier marks for related goods or services, so a proper clearance also checks phonetic, visual and conceptual variants.

Searching MARCia

  1. Search by word element, including variants: spacing, plural forms and letters that sound alike in Spanish (B/V, S/C/Z, K/C/Q).
  2. Filter by class, including related classes.
  3. Check the status of each result: registered, pending, abandoned or lapsed.
  4. Search design elements if your mark includes a logo.

Why Spanish pronunciation matters

IMPI examiners assess similarity as a Spanish-speaking consumer would perceive it. Marks that look different in English can sound nearly identical in Spanish, and translations can collide conceptually: "Golden Lion" and "León Dorado" may be considered confusingly similar.

Reading the results

ResultWhat it means
Identical mark, registered, same classYou won't be able to register, and using it carries infringement risk.
Similar mark in a related classHigh risk of an office action citing it. Needs analysis.
Pending applicationIt has priority over yours if granted.
Lapsed or abandoned markPossible opportunity; confirm no new filing exists.
Not registered doesn't mean free. Unregistered prior use and well-known marks can still block or complicate your filing.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I search trademarks in Mexico?

In MARCia, IMPI's free official database, which shows registered and pending trademarks with owner, class and status.

Is an identical-name search enough?

No. IMPI also refuses marks that are confusingly similar, assessed phonetically, visually and conceptually from a Spanish-speaking perspective.

Can you run the search for us?

Yes. We run a preliminary search at no cost and report the risk in English before you file.

Want us to clear your mark?

Send us the name and your goods or services. We'll check variants and related classes and report back in English.

Request a free search