Which is the competent authority for utility model applications in Bulgaria?

yes. For an invention with the same subject matter, the applicant may file a patent type conversion request within 2 months from the date of receiving the patent application decision, but no later than 10 years from the application date, and change the patent type from invention to utility model .

A novelty grace period of 6 months is available if:

• The applicant or the original right holder obviously abused the
• Exhibited by the applicant or the original right holder at an official or officially recognized exhibition

Bulgarian Patent and Trademark Office

English: Bulgarian Patent Office, abbreviation: BPO

Website: Патентното ведомство на Република България (bpo.bg)

Bulgarian Utility Model Patent Search: BPO Online - portal.bpo.bg

no

Reinstatement of priority on grounds of "due care" and "unintentional/due care" accepted.

20 years

Bulgarian Patent Office

English: Bulgarian Patent Office, abbreviation: BPO

Website: Патентното ведомство на Република България (bpo.bg)

Bulgarian invention patent search: BPO Online - portal.bpo.bg

The initial protection period is 4 years, which can be extended for two consecutive three years, and the maximum protection period is 10 years.

A 12-month novelty grace period is available if:

• The applicant authorizes others to use
• manifest misuse by a third party

Reinstatement of priority on grounds of "due care" and "unintentional/due care" accepted.