What is the role of WIPO in processing priority claims for international design applications?

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) plays a crucial role in processing priority claims for international design applications:

• Priority claims are made in the international design application filed with WIPO.
• WIPO is responsible for initially processing and recording these priority claims.
• WIPO transmits the priority claim information to designated Contracting Parties, including the USPTO.

According to MPEP 2920.05(d): “Priority claims made in an international design application are made to the International Bureau [of WIPO].” This centralized approach through WIPO streamlines the priority claim process for applicants seeking protection in multiple countries.

To learn more:

• WIPO
• international design applications
• priority claims
• International Bureau
• Contracting Parties