Class transitions in Nice Classification on 1st January 2026
Every five years, the Nice Classification that governs the classification of goods and services is reviewed and a new edition is published. A review means amendments, and amendments means restructuring within the framework and adjustment of trademark applications.
Here are the main changes to note before the new Nice Classification comes into force this upcoming year, on January 1st, 2026:
- All goods in class 9 related to glasses and contact lenses will be transferred to class 10 which cover medical related goods.
- Emergency and rescue vehicles or equipment presently covered by class 9 will be moved to class 12 which covers all vehicles and apparatus for the transportation of people or goods.
| Class | Added | Deleted |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Essential oils for use in manufacture | |
| 3 | Perfumes Essential oils for fragrance / cosmetic purposes | Essential oils |
| 9 | Glasses & contact lenses Emergency and rescue vehicles | |
| 10 | Glasses & contact lenses | |
| 12 | Emergency and rescue vehicles |
What impact will this new classification have on trademarks?
- Registered trademarks will not be affected and will not need to be reclassified.
- Trademark application submitted before January 1st, 2026, will also not be affected by the amendments and will therefore not need to be reclassified.
- However, trademark application submitted after January 1st, 2026 will be affected by it and will have to apply the amendments of the new classification of goods and services.
Office Freylinger’s Trademark Team is happy to assist for any question in regard to the amended classification and your trademark protection.