Introduction to Designs

What is a Design?

A design refers to the features of a shape, configuration, colours, pattern or ornament applied to any article or non-physical product that give that article or non-physical product its appearance. It protects the external appearance of the article or non-physical product.

A registered design is a form of property and it can be assigned, licensed or mortgaged. Designs can be two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional, and can be applied to everyday items.

Here are the benefits, term of protection and additional facts about Designs:

Benefits

When you register a design, you protect the external appearance of the article or non-physical product and have the right to control its use.

As an owner of the registered design, you can prevent others from using the design without your permission.

You can also use your registration to protect your market share by barring others from copying, license it to third parties for commercial returns or sell the design for monetary returns.

Terms of protection

Once your design is registered, it will be protected for an initial 5 years from the date of filing. Thereafter, the registration is to be renewed every 5 years, up to 15 years.

How to register

The registration process can be broken down into 3 steps:

• Step 1: Check registration criteria for a Design

• Step 2: Apply for a Design

• Step 3: Forms and fees for new applications