Can a U.S. applicant file an international design application directly with WIPO?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

No, a U.S. applicant cannot file an international design application directly with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). According to MPEP 2905, “Applicants from the United States are not permitted to file international design applications directly with the International Bureau.” U.S. applicants must file through the USPTO, which acts as an office of indirect filing. This restriction is in place to ensure compliance with national security provisions and to maintain proper examination procedures.