How to File a Trademark Opposition in Iraq

How to Establish a Digital Bank in Iraq Investor & Regulatory Overview Establishing a digital bank in Iraq is subject to the Iraqi Banking Law and the regulatory authority of the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI). Digital banking activities are regulated as banking services, meaning that any entity seeking to operate a digital or branch-light banking model must obtain a full banking license and comply with all applicable prudential, governance, and compliance requirements imposed by the CBI. Although there is currently no standalone “digital-only” banking license, digital banks are permitted to operate within the existing banking framework, subject to enhanced regulatory scrutiny in areas such as technology, cybersecurity, consumer protection, and AML/CFT compliance. Investor Perspective A digital bank structure allows investors to enter the Iraqi financial market with a technology-driven model, supporting digital onboarding, electronic payments, and online banking services. Given Iraq’s ongoing transition toward financial inclusion and cashless payments, digital banking presents a long-term strategic investment opportunity, provided that regulatory, capital, and governance expectations are fully met. Key Regulatory Considerations: Applicants seeking to establish a digital bank in Iraq are expected to demonstrate: Compliance with Central Bank of Iraq licensing requirements Adequate capitalization in line with banking regulations Transparent ownership and shareholder structure Qualified board members and senior management Effective corporate governance and risk management Robust AML/CFT, KYC, and sanctions controls Secure IT systems, cybersecurity, and data protection A sustainable digital banking business model Foreign investors are subject to additional regulatory review and must satisfy enhanced due diligence requirements.   Digital Bank vs Electronic Payment Company in Iraq  Aspect Digital Bank Electronic Payment Company Regulator Central Bank of Iraq Central Bank of Iraq Legal Status Licensed bank Licensed non-bank financial institution License Scope Full banking license Electronic payment services license Capital Level Bank-level requirements Lower than banks Core Services Deposits, accounts, lending, digital banking Wallets, POS, payment processing Customer Deposits Permitted Limited / transactional Lending Activities Permitted Not permitted Regulatory Burden High Moderate Market Entry Complex Relatively faster Investor Profile Institutional / long-term Fintech / payment-focused   Strategic insight: A digital bank is suitable for investors seeking full financial intermediation and long-term market presence, while an electronic payment company may be more appropriate for payments-focused or fintech-driven strategies. Regulatory Compliance & Ongoing Obligations: Once licensed, a digital bank in Iraq remains subject to continuous supervision by the Central Bank of Iraq, including reporting obligations, inspections, capital adequacy requirements, and compliance with AML/CFT and consumer protection rules. Failure to comply may result in regulatory sanctions or corrective measures. How Etihad Can Assist Etihad provides legal and regulatory advisory services to banks, financial institutions, and businesses, supporting compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory guidance issued by any competent authorities.  

How to Register a Patent in Iraq

How to Register a Patent in Iraq Confirm patentability: Ensure the invention is new, involves an inventive step, and is industrially applicable under Iraqi law. Prepare patent documents: Draft the specification, including a detailed description, claims, drawings (if any), and an abstract. Accuracy is critical. Appoint a local agent (foreign applicants): Non-Iraqi applicants must apply through a licensed Iraqi patent agent or law firm with a Power of Attorney. File the application: Submit the patent application to the Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (COSQC). Formal examination: The authority reviews the application for completeness and formal compliance. Substantive examination: The invention is examined for novelty, inventiveness, and industrial applicability. Grant decision: If accepted, the patent is granted and recorded in the official register. Maintain the patent: Pay annual renewal fees to keep the patent valid for up to 20 years from the filing date. How Etihad Can Assist Etihad provides legal and regulatory advisory services to banks, financial institutions, and businesses, supporting compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory guidance issued by any competent authorities.  

How to register Trademark in Iraq

AML/CFT Compliance Update – Central Bank of Iraq Trademark registration in Iraq is governed by the Iraqi Trademarks and Commercial Data Law and administered by the Trademark Office at the Ministry of Industry and Minerals. Determine Trademark Eligibility Distinctive (not descriptive or generic) Not identical or confusingly similar to an existing mark Lawful and not misleading Not contrary to public order or morality Trademarks may include words, logos, symbols, or combinations. Conduct a Trademark Search (Recommended): Before filing, it is advisable to conduct a clearance search to check for, This helps reduce the risk of rejection or opposition: Existing identical or similar trademarks Conflicts within the same or related classes   Prepare Required Documents Trademark application form Clear representation of the trademark Applicant details (individual or company) List of goods/services (classified under the Nice Classification) Power of Attorney (mandatory for foreign applicants) Priority document (if claiming priority, optional) Foreign applicants must apply through a local Iraqi agent or law firm.   File the Application: The application is filed with the Iraqi Trademark Office in Baghdad. Once submitted, the application is examined for: Formal compliance Substantive registrability   Publication & Opposition Accepted applications are published in the Official Trademark Gazette A 90-day opposition period applies Third parties may file objections during this time If no opposition is filed (or opposition is resolved), the mark proceeds to registration.   Registration & Certificate The trademark is registered and a registration certificate is issued Protection is granted for 10 years from the filing date The trademark is renewable indefinitely for additional 10-year periods   Use & Maintenance Trademarks must be used in Iraq A mark may be subject to cancellation for non-use if unused for three consecutive years Renewal must be filed before expiry (grace periods may apply with penalties) How Etihad Can Assist Etihad provides legal and regulatory advisory services to banks, financial institutions, and businesses, supporting compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory guidance issued by any competent authorities.