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

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.

no

• Authorization Fee: None
• Annuity: The annual fee is paid every 5 years. The overdue annual fee can be paid within a grace period of up to six months after the due date, and a 20% late fee will be paid at the same time. Pay within the first 3 months of the grace period with no late fees.

Austrian Patent Office

English: Austrian Patent Office, abbreviation: ATPO

Website: Home | Das Österreichische Patentamt

Austrian patent search for inventions: National Patents Search (patentamt.at)

Austrian Patent Office

English: Austrian Patent Office, abbreviation: ATPO

Website: Home | Das Österreichische Patentamt

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

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.

• 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.

10 years

yes. Prior to patent grant/rejection, the patent type can be converted from utility model to invention at the request of the applicant. Can only be converted once.