If within 12 months before the filing of the design patent application, due to the disclosure of the designer or its former right holder, the novelty grace period can be enjoyed.
- 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.
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.
If within 12 months before the filing of the design patent application, due to the disclosure of the designer or its former right holder, the novelty grace period can be enjoyed.
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.
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.
The initial protection is 5 years, which can be renewed 4 times for a maximum protection of 25 years.
Filing Language: German Necessary documents:
- Exterior Design Picture (Six Views)
- A Brief Description
Attachments (if any):
- Power of Attorney
- Certified Priority Document
- Declaration of Ownership/Certification of Employment/Assignment of priority
- Assignment for Patent Right Transfer
11 months. If an expedited request is made, granted can be obtained in about 3-4 months.
Austrian Patent Office
English: Austrian Patent Office, abbreviation: ATPO
Website: Home | Das Österreichische Patentamt
Austrian patent search for inventions: National Patents Search (patentamt.at)