Important changes to the Nice Classification system
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) has published its 13th edition of the Nice Classification, introducing changes affecting new trade mark filings from 1st January 2026.
The Nice Classification is the international system for categorising goods and services in trade mark applications. New editions are published every three years, with annual updates reflecting market and technological developments.
Key changes
There are significant reassignments and new entries that will have practical implications for applicants, rights holders and practitioners. These include:
- Reclassification of eyewear products: Corrective glasses, contact lenses and sunglasses have moved from Class 9 to Class 10 to reflect their medical and therapeutic character; smart glasses remain in Class 9 due to their electronic nature.
- Emergency and rescue vehicles: These have moved to Class 12, aligning with the broader vehicle category.
- Personal care devices: Items such as electric toothbrushes and tongue scrapers have moved from Class 10 to Class 21.
- Electrically heated clothing: Electrically heated garments and accessories have moved from Class 11 to Class 25.
- Optician services: Retail-related optician services now fall under Class 35, while repair services are now in Class 37 (previously Class 44).
- Essential oils: Classification is now purpose-based: Class 30 for food use, Class 5 for medical use, and Class 3 for cosmetic use.
The 13th edition will not affect trade marks filed before 1st January 2026, meaning there is no requirement for owners of pre-existing applications and registrations to reclassify terms or re-register.
WIPO will add the abbreviation “NCL (13‑2026)” next to the goods and services in notifications to designated Madrid System members, registration certificates, official publications and in the asset details in eMadrid.
The goods and services manager tool in eMadrid has also been updated to reflect the changes.
What this means for practitioners
These changes represent one of the most significant updates to the Nice Classification in recent years, making early planning and careful examination particularly important.
Trade mark professionals and brand owners should review filing strategies, clearance searches and existing agreements to ensure they reflect the revised classification structure.
You can find out more about the Nice classification changes and examination guidelines on the WIPO website.