Design Registration — protect your product’s look

The unique shape, pattern or appearance of your product can be protected. We search, prepare and file your industrial design registration so competitors can’t copy the look.

What it is

A design registration protects the visual appearance of a product — its shape, configuration, pattern or ornamentation — that appeals to the eye, as distinct from how it works. Registration gives you exclusive rights over that appearance (initially ten years, extendable), and is filed under the Designs Act with the correct class.

Who should register

Product designers, manufacturers and businesses with a distinctive-looking product.

Register my design

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Why register

Protect the look

Stops competitors from copying your product’s unique appearance.

Exclusive rights

Registered designs give you enforceable rights over the design.

Business value

A registered design is an IP asset that adds brand and market value.

Right classification

We file under the correct design class to secure valid protection.

Documents you'll need

  • Images/drawings of the product from all views
  • Applicant details
  • Class of the article
  • Statement of novelty
  • Proof of MSME/startup status, if applicable

How it works

  1. Design search to check novelty
  2. Prepare representations and novelty statement
  3. File the design application in the correct class
  4. Respond to any objections
  5. Registration and issue of certificate
  6. Advise on renewal

Frequently asked questions

What can be registered as a design?

The shape, pattern, configuration or ornamentation of a product that is new and appeals to the eye.

How long is a design registration valid?

Initially ten years, extendable by a further five years on renewal.

Design vs patent — what’s the difference?

A design protects how a product looks; a patent protects how it works.

Can I register a logo as a design?

Logos are usually protected as trademarks; product appearance is protected as a design. We advise the right route.