What is an important requirement for an "intent-to-use" trademark application?

An important requirement for an "intent-to-use" trademark application is that a subsequent statement of use must be filed. This is a critical aspect of the process because the intent-to-use application indicates that the applicant has a bona fide intention to use the trademark in commerce in the future, but has not yet done so at the time of filing. To move forward and ultimately secure registration, the applicant must later demonstrate actual use of the trademark in commerce by filing a statement of use. This requirement ensures that the trademark is being actively used in the marketplace, which is key to maintaining the integrity of the trademark system and preventing the trademark from being registered simply as a reservation of rights without any actual commercial use.

This requirement underscores the difference between a mere application and actual rights in a trademark. Filing a statement of use communicates to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that the applicant has moved from the intent phase to actual use, thus fulfilling the legal requirement for the trademark's registration.