European Union (EUIPO) - Design

Registered Community designs (RCDs) 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 Registered Community design is automatically effective across all EU member states, streamlining protection and enforcement by avoiding separate national filings.