Through Resolution 162/2026, Argentina’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) approved a new Regulation for the Recordal of Ownership Transfers and Name Changes, applicable to trademarks, patents, utility models, and industrial designs.
The regulation repeals the framework that had been in force for more than a decade under INPI Resolution No. 39/2011 and its amendment, INPI Resolution No. 61/2020.
Why is the previous framework being replaced
According to the grounds set out in Resolution 162/2026, the 2011 regulation lacked basic definitions — such as what constitutes a “recordal,” an “assignor,” or an “assignee” — and did not refer to the applicable substantive rules, which led to interpretive uncertainty in practice. The new text seeks to update these concepts and simplify the proceedings.
Main changes in comparison to the previous framework
Express definitions. For the first time, the new regulation defines concepts such as “recordal,” “ownership transfer,” “name change,” “assignor,” and “assignee” — precisions the 2011 Resolution did not include.
Broader standing to file. In transfers, either the assignor or the assignee may now request the recordal, indistinctly and without needing to act jointly.
Elimination of apostille and consular legalization. Documents executed abroad supporting the transfer or evidencing representation no longer require an apostille or consular legalization, a requirement the previous framework did include.
Rules for complex cases. Specific guidelines are introduced for trusts, inheritance proceedings, marital dissolutions, and multiple successive transfers under an abridged chain-of-title procedure — situations that previously generated practical uncertainty.
Express rejection for lapsed rights. The regulation now expressly states that a transfer or name/business change will not be recorded if the underlying right has already lapsed.
Notice periods. The framework keeps the 10-business-day notice period, automatically extendable for three consecutive periods, with notification through the Trademark or Patent Bulletin.
Effective date
The new regulation has been in force since its publication in the Official Gazette on May 29, 2026, and applies immediately to pending proceedings.
For more information or advice on transfers of trademarks, patents, and other industrial property rights in Argentina, please contact us.
