How does the Hague Agreement affect design patent applications in the US?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. The Hague Agreement has a significant impact on design patent applications in the United States. According to MPEP 1504.10 : “The right of priority is recognized for applications for design patents filed in the United States on and after May 13, 2015, pursuant to title I of the PLTIA (the Hague Agreement).” Key points about the Hague Agreement’s effect on US design patent applications include: It allows applicants to file a single international design application to obtain protection in multiple countries. US applicants can use an international design application as a basis for priority in a US design application. Conversely, US design applications can serve as a basis for priority in international design applications. It streamlines the process for obtaining design protection internationally. The Hague Agreement has simplified the process of securing international design protection, making it more accessible and cost-effective for inventors and designers. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Design Patent Applications Can Claim Foreign Filing Dates MPEP 1504.10 Right of Priority Restoration for Design Applications MPEP 1504.10 Permitted Design Patent Application Must Claim Priority Within 6 Months MPEP 1504.10 Required Ex Parte Quayle Action for Design Patent Allowability MPEP 1504 U.S. Design Patent Application Within 6 Months of Foreign Filing MPEP 1504.02 Required Right of Priority for International Design Applications MPEP 213.07 Design Applications Cannot Claim Provisional Priority MPEP 1504.10 Prohibited Effectively Filed Date for Prior Art Under 102(a)(2) MPEP 1504.02 Required Right of Priority for Earlier Filed Applications MPEP 1504.02 Prior...