What is the benefit of claiming priority to an international design application?

Claiming priority to an international design application can provide significant benefits for nonprovisional applications. According to MPEP § 211.01(d):

Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 386(c), in accordance with the conditions and requirements of 35 U.S.C. 120, a nonprovisional application is entitled to the benefit of a prior international design application designating the United States.

This means that a nonprovisional application can claim the earlier filing date of an international design application, potentially providing an earlier priority date for the claimed invention.

For more information on 35 U.S.C. 120, visit: 35 U.S.C. 120.

For more information on 35 U.S.C. 386(c), visit: 35 U.S.C. 386(c).

For more information on nonprovisional application, visit: nonprovisional application.