Design protection

Registration from 99€

Intellectual property protection solution

Design protection is essential for companies. The creation of a product that is both useful and attractive is of strategic importance, as its appearance helps to distinguish it from the competition and appeal to consumers.

Design protection: definition

Article L 511-1 of the French Intellectual Property Code defines designs as “the appearance of a product, or part of a product, characterized in particular by its lines, contours, colors, shape, texture or materials. These characteristics may be those of the product itself or of its ornamentation.”

When the appearance of these products takes the form of two-dimensional graphic elements, we speak of drawings. When these graphic elements are three-dimensional, they are called models.

Court-approved evidence

Recognized by courts worldwide.

Bailiff's certificates valid for life

You're building up proof that lasts a lifetime.

Your deposits valid in 11 languages

Your deposits are available in English, French, Italian, Chinese, German, Portuguese, Arabic, Spanish, Korean, Japanese and Russian.

Your proofs available 24/7

Deposit receipt available online 24/7.

How do I register & protect my designs with Fidealis?

1. Register

I register for free. No payment is required.

2. We guide you

I choose an offer adapted to my needs with an advisor.

3. We protect you

I upload my creations online. I'm protected!

Conditions of design protection

Design protection in accordance with Article L 511-2 of the French Intellectual Property Code : “Only designs that are new and distinctive can be protected”.

  • Novelty presupposes that no identical or virtually identical design has been disclosed prior to the date of protection granted to your application.
  • Cleanliness means that the design must not give an impression of déjà vu in its entirety, compared with a design disclosed before the date of protection granted to your application.

Designs that are contrary to public policy or morality cannot be protected. The same applies to designs based on a computer program, or whose characteristics are exclusively dictated by the technical function of the product.

Designs are protected by registration.

Registering designs online

Any individual or legal entity can register a design. You can also choose to be represented by a professional agent.

Filing is done online on a specialized platform. Once you have submitted your application, a review period begins.

If your application is accepted, it will be published in the BOPI (Bulletin Officiel de la Propriété Intellectuelle).

You can also register your designs for copyright on our registration platform.

This Copyright then enables you to protect your rights and take action against any competitor who has counterfeited one of your creations.

Fidealis, protect your designs in just a few clicks

A pioneering solution in the protection of designs and collections, combining electronic signature technologies, timestamping and blockchain. Your creative work is instantly officially certified and archived.

See also our guide to industrial property.

Find out more aboutdesigns and models on the INPI website.

Frequently asked questions

What is a design in industrial property?

A design corresponds to the external appearance of a product or part of a product. It may include shapes, lines, contours, textures or colors that make it distinctive. It therefore does not protect function or technique, but only aesthetics.

Why protect a design?

Protection prevents third parties from copying or exploiting your creation without authorization. It confers a monopoly on exploitation, enhances the commercial value of your product and can be a strategic asset for your brand.

What is the term of protection for a registered design?

The initial term of protection is 5 years from the date of filing. It can be renewed for periods of 5 years up to a maximum of 25 years.

What is the difference between a copyright and a design registration?

Copyright automatically protects a work as long as it is original, without the need for registration. Registration of a design, on the other hand, is a voluntary, formal act that secures a certain date and facilitates legal action in the event of litigation.

How do I register a design with Fidealis?

Fidealis offers an online service for filing your creation. The process includes time-stamping, filing with national or international bodies, and storing proof of filing in a secure digital safe.