INPI only conducts formality examination of design patent applications.
1-2 years
no
- via Paris Convention : 6 months from earliest priority date.
- EU route: 6 months from earliest priority date.
- Hague Agreement route: 6 months from earliest priority date.
The novelty grace period is 6 months before the filing date/priority date.
yes
20 years
- via Paris Convention : 12 months from earliest priority date.
- Validation of European Patent in EPO member states: 3 months from the date of European patent grant.
INPI only conducts formality examination of utility model patent applications, and does not conduct search and substantive examination. However, in case of litigation, a search report needs to be submitted.
Reinstatement of Priority Accepted on Unintentional Grounds.
Filing Language: French Necessary documents:
- Exterior Design Picture (Six Views)
- A Brief Description
Attachments (if any):
- Power of Attorney
- Certified Priority Document
- Declaration of Ownership/Certification of Employment/Assignment of priority
- Assignment for Patent Right Transfer
- small entity declaration
- inventor statement
- Business license for company registration or articles of incorporation