European Union (EUIPO) - Design

EU designs (EUD) are administered by the EUIPO and protect the appearance or ornamentation of a product throughout the EU.

• Procedures: Applicants must submit clear representations of the design, including drawings or photographs, accompanied by necessary details describing its visual features.

• Duration: The initial term lasts for 5 years from the filing date, with the option to renew in 5-year increments for up to 25 years total.

• Novelty Requirements: RCDs must be new (no identical design previously made available to the public) and have individual character.

• Member State Implications: A EU designs is automatically effective across all EU member states, streamlining protection and enforcement by avoiding separate national filings.