How many independent and distinct designs can be claimed in a single international design application designating the United States?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 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 United States allows only one independent and distinct design to be claimed in a single international design application. This limitation is based on a specific declaration made under the Hague Agreement. As stated in the MPEP, “ Pursuant to Article 13(1), the United States declared that only one independent and distinct design may be claimed in a single application. “ This requirement is consistent with U.S. design patent practice and is further explained in MPEP § 2920.05(b) and MPEP § 1504.05 . Applicants should be aware of this limitation when preparing international design applications that include a U.S. designation. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examination of International Design Application for U.S. MPEP 2920 Required Examination of International Design Applications Designating the United States MPEP 2920 Nonprovisional International Design Application Requirement MPEP 2920 Definition of Nonprovisional International Design Application MPEP 2920 Fees for International Design Application Processing MPEP 2920 Permitted Geneva Act of Hague Agreement Takes Effect for US MPEP 2903 Permitted Patent May Be Issued Based on International Design Application MPEP 2920 Required Published International Design Registrations Designating U.S. Examined MPEP 2920 No Submissions Required for U.S. Design Exam MPEP 2920 Substance and Procedures for International Design Applications MPEP 2920 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the individual designation fee structure for international design applications designating the United States? How does the United States handle changes in ownership for international design registrations? What are ...