Step-by-Step Workflow

Preparation of Application

• Submit representations (mainly drawings – 2(a), 2(d), 4.35, 46 etc.)
• Claim priority (if applicable), prior publication, and exclusions/prohibitions

Filing of Application

• File Form 1 with prescribed fee
• Submit representations (drawings/photographs)
• Claim priority (if applicable)

Formal Examination

• Check for completeness, proper forms, fees, timelines, and representations
• Provide name of the article and appropriate Locarno class-subclass
• Prepare representations (views clearly showing the design)
• Ensure novelty and/or originality; avoid prior publication
• Defects, if any, communicated to the applicant

Substantive Examination

• Examination mainly under Sections 2(a), 2(d), 4, 5, 35, 46 etc.
• Assess novelty, originality, prior publication, and exclusions/prohibitions

Examination Report / Objections

• Objections issued through FER, if any
• Applicant to respond/amend within prescribed time

Acceptance

• Application accepted upon compliance of all formal & statutory requirements
• Application proceeds to registration & publication

Registration

• Design is registered and entered in the Register of Designs
• Registration Certificate issued

Publication

• Registered design is published in the Patent Office Journal

Post-Registration

• Validity: 10 years
• Renewal for additional 5 years on payment of fee