Which is the competent authority for patent applications for inventions in Belgium?

IPObel conducts only formality examination of invention patent applications. The applicant needs to submit a search request within 13 months from the date of the latest application. The search report will be issued by the EPO with a written opinion on patentability, but it is not binding. The patent application is completed within 18 months from the earliest priority date Authorization can be obtained after publication.

3 months

yes. A maximum of 50 designs may be included under the same Locarno category.

BOIP only conducts a formality examination of the design application, including whether the design violates public order and good customs. Once the formality examination is completed, the patent application will be authorized and published.

Belgian Federal Government Intellectual Property Office

English: The Belgian Intellectual Property Office, Abbreviation: IPObel

Website: Intellectual property | FPS Economy (fgov.be)

Belgian invention patent search: Search in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) | CBE Public Search (fgov.be)

no

no

yes

The novelty grace period is 12 months before the filing date/priority date.