Multiple variant designs may be included in one application if the designs relate to the same object and differ only in minor features, or can be identified as a set of goods and have a single design concept.
no
yes. The applicant may request that the patent application be changed from an invention to a utility model before the publication of the patent application but no later than the grant decision.
1-3 years
no
13 years
- via Paris Convention : 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.
Reinstatement of priority is accepted on grounds of "due care".
The initial protection is 5 years, which can be renewed every 5 years, up to a maximum of 25 years.
no