French Utility Model Patent Application and Fees

Name: French Utility Model Patent Application and Fees
Brand: INIPA | Global Intellectual Property Services Agency
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (1 reviews)

This fee includes the Official Fee + Firm Fee, Total (USD)
French utility models and French invention patents (Brevets) cover the same subject matter, encompassing all types of technical solutions, including products and methods.
Applicants must proactively request and pay a fee within 18 months of the application date for an INPI (Institute of Patents) to prepare a "search report," along with preliminary written opinions on novelty and inventiveness. This report does not affect the grant (granting may occur even with a negative report), but its conclusions are the sole official reference for assessing the stability and value of the patent right.
French utility models do not undergo substantive examination. As long as the document format is compliant, regardless of the technical content, granting will occur approximately 18 months after publication from the application date.
For foreign applicants without a permanent office or residence in France, the law mandates that they appoint a patent attorney (Conseil en Propriété Industrielle) registered in France.

$700.00

Patent Application:

Filing of Utility application

for each claim beyond the 10th

Declaration of one or more priority right

Designation of French Polynesia

Attending to the payment of the issue

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Description

French Utility Model Patent Application: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The French Utility Model Patent (often referred to as "Certificat d’Utilité") provides a streamlined mechanism for protecting technical innovations in France. Designed for inventions with a shorter commercial lifecycle, it offers faster registration and lower costs compared to traditional patents. At INIPA, we specialize in guiding clients through the intricacies of this process, ensuring robust intellectual property protection aligned with French legal frameworks.

Key Features & Advantages

1. Expedited Protection

Utility models typically undergo a simplified examination process, enabling registration within 6–12 months, significantly faster than standard 2. Reduced Formality Requirements
While maintaining rigorous protection, the documentation and procedural demands are less burdensome than those for invention patents.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Lower official fees and shorter processing times make this an economical choice for SMEs and startups seeking immediate IP security.

Required Documentation

To file a French Utility Model application, the following materials must be prepared:

Technical Description: Detailed disclosure of the invention’s functionality and novelty.
Claims: Precise definition of the scope of protection sought.
Abstract: Summary of the technical field and key features (max. 150 words).
Drawings: Formalized diagrams supporting the technical description (numbered and referenced).
Novelty Statement: Declaration confirming the invention’s originality.

Application Process Overview

Prior Art Search (Optional but recommended): Verify novelty via databases like INPI.
Document Preparation: Drafting compliant specifications, claims, and drawings.
Filing Submission: Electronic or paper submission to France’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI).
Formal Examination: INPI reviews documentation completeness and basic patentability criteria.
Publication: Application details published in the Bulletin Officiel de la Propriété Industrielle (BOPI) post-examination.
Certificate Issuance: Registration granted for 6 years (non-renewable) upon approval.

Why Partner with INIPA?

As a globally recognized intellectual property service provider, INIPA offers:

Expertise Across 200+ Jurisdictions: Seamless coordination of multi-country IP strategies.
Localized Support: French-qualified agents ensure compliance with national regulations.
End-to-End Management: From prior art analysis to post-registration maintenance.

Critical Considerations

Term Limitation: Utility models expire after 6 years (vs. 20 years for patents).
No Substantive Examination: Validity may be challenged during enforcement.
Maintenance Fees: Annual fees apply starting from the second year.

Secure Your Innovation Today
Leverage INIPA’s expertise to navigate France’s utility model system with confidence.