International Protection of Designs
05.13.15
The Hague Agreement Concerning International Registration of Industrial Designs takes effect today, May 13, 2015, in the United States.
United States applicants are now able to file international design applications (similar to a PCT application for utility patents) either directly through the World Intellectual Property Organization or indirectly through the United States Patent & Trademark Office. Currently, over 64 territories are members of the Hague Agreement and would be available under this treaty. Applicants filing international design applications can designate the United States for design protection.
Additionally, US design patents filed after the today’s effective date will have a term of 15 years from issuance.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided is for general informational purposes only. This post is not updated to account for changes in the law and should not be considered tax or legal advice. This article is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship. You should consult with legal and/or financial advisors for legal and tax advice tailored to your specific circumstances.