The flag and coat of arms in commercial activities and trademarks

Use of the Finnish flag and coat of arms is not forbidden in a commercial activity, and they are widely used to represent Finland in a number of contexts. However, such use must always be respectful and comply with generally accepted principles of morality.

The permission of the Ministry of the Interior is required in order to use the Finnish flag and coat of arms if the intention is to use them as part of a

• registered trademark (Trademarks Act 544/2019, section 12)
• protected design (Registered Designs Act 221/1971, section 4a).

Use of the Finnish coat of arms is restricted by legislation. A coat of arms that materially deviates from the definition of the Finnish coat of arms may not be sold (Act on the Coat of Arms of Finland 381/1978, section 3). The Act on Official Seals and Stamps (19/2009) stipulates that the Finnish coat of arms may only be used by State organs, State officials and the Bank of Finland as referred to in the Act.

Applying for permission

Apply for permission to use the Finnish flag or coat of arms from the Ministry of the Interior. Applications for registered trademarks, collective marks or protected designs that include the Finnish flag or coat of arms may be submitted to the Ministry's Registry.