Protection in Germany
Protection of a design which is valid in Germany can be achieved by filing a national, a European or an International design application. For several years there is also the possibility to obtain a further European design protection that is time limited and not registered.
We have to apply for the registration of a design. After examination of formal requirements the design is registered.
In case that the registered design is not new or not distinctive enough from other similar existing designs, the design protection cannot be claimed despite registration and third parties may file a request for cancellation of the design.
The period of protection of a registered European or international design is five years. The period of protection may be extended up to a maximum of 25 years.
