25 years
- via Paris Convention : 12 months from earliest priority date.
The novelty grace period is 6 months before the filing date/priority date.
- 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.
INPI
English: L'Institut national de la propriété industrielle, abbreviation: INPI
Website: www.inpi.fr
French Utility Model Search: Recherche avancée - Data INPI
yes
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.
INPI only conducts formality examination of design patent applications.
no. (Utility models submitted before January 11, 2020 can be converted into inventions, provided that the technical preparations for publication are completed (approximately 16 months from the filing date). Search fees and search reports must be submitted at the same time.)
20 years
10 years