Who is the competent authority for utility model applications in Austria?

ATPO only conducts formality examination of design patent applications.

yes. Before the patent is granted/rejected, the patent type can be changed from invention to utility model at the request of the applicant. Can only be converted once.

Austrian Patent Office

English: Austrian Patent Office, abbreviation: ATPO

Website: Home | Das Österreichische Patentamt

Austrian Utility Model Patent Search: National Patents Search (patentamt.at)

1 month

• 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.

ATPO conducts formality examination only for utility model patent applications. Although ATPO searches utility model patent applications, the search results do not affect the grant results. The applicant may amend the patent application after receiving the search report.

Reinstatement of priority on grounds of "due care" and "unintentional/due care" accepted.

ATPO conducts formality examination and substantive examination of invention patents. The search report will be published together with the patent application within 18 months from the filing date, and the substantive examination will start automatically, and the applicant does not need to file a separate request for substantive examination. It can be authorized if the granted conditions are met.

yes

A novelty grace period of 6 months prior to the filing date/priority date may be granted if the invention is disclosed as a result of apparent misuse by the applicant or its former right holders, or if the invention is exhibited at an official or officially recognized exhibition.