How to File a Utility Model in China (CNIPA)
The most strategically important IP tool for any inventor manufacturing in or selling to China. Registers in 6–12 months. Costs ~$1,500–$2,500.
File BEFORE sharing design files with your Chinese manufacturer. Once designs are shared without IP protection in place, you have limited recourse if the manufacturer copies them.
- Instruct a registered Chinese patent agent (foreign applicants cannot file directly)
- Prepare specification, claims, drawings, and abstract
- Confirm invention is a product/device with physical structure (NOT a process or software)
- Chinese translation prepared by agent
- Agent files application at CNIPA
- Government fee: ~RMB 500 (USD $70)
- CNIPA conducts formal examination only (no prior art search)
Dual-filing strategy: File both a Chinese invention patent (20 years, full examination) and a utility model (10 years, no examination) from the same specification. The utility model registers first, giving immediate enforceable rights.
- Wait for registration (6–12 months)
- Request CNIPA evaluation report (patentability assessment) — strengthens enforcement
- Register on Alibaba AIPP and JD.com for platform-based enforcement
- If dual-filed: choose to keep invention patent when it grants (abandon utility model)
Sharing Designs Before Filing
Sending CAD files, drawings, or prototypes to a Chinese manufacturer before your utility model is filed gives them everything they need to copy your product — with no IP protection in place to stop them.
Skipping the Evaluation Report
A utility model registers without examination. Before enforcing it — in court or on e-commerce platforms — request a CNIPA evaluation report. Without it, courts and platforms may not take your enforcement action seriously.
Forgetting to Choose at Dual-Filing
Under China's dual-filing system, if both the utility model and invention patent are granted, you must abandon one. Typically, keep the invention patent (longer term, examined status). Plan for this decision in advance.
Your Chinese Utility Model Is Filed.
Enforceable rights in 6–12 months. Register on platform enforcement systems. Request the CNIPA evaluation report before any enforcement action. You're now protected in the world's largest manufacturing market.