How to File an International Design Application (Hague System)
One application, 90+ countries. Design protection in 5 countries for ~$2,000–$4,000 instead of $5,000–$15,000 filing separately.
- Confirm you are a national/resident of, or have business in, a Hague member country
- Prepare photographs or drawings of the design — up to 7 views per design
- Identify the Locarno classification for your design
- Select target countries (US, EU, Japan, South Korea, China, UK, etc.)
Batch filing: You can include up to 100 designs in a single application if they belong to the same Locarno class — significantly reducing costs for product families.
- Go to hague.wipo.int (eHague system)
- Upload design reproductions (photographs or drawings)
- Designate countries for protection
- Pay fees: base CHF 397 + CHF 17/reproduction + designation fees per country
- Submit application
- WIPO formality check: 1–2 months
- Design published in International Designs Bulletin (~6 months after filing)
- Each designated office has 6–12 months to refuse (if no refusal, protection is granted)
- Monitor for refusals and respond through local agents if needed
Assuming Universal Coverage
Not all countries are Hague members. India, Brazil, and many developing countries are not. For non-member countries, file national design applications directly.
Poor Quality Reproductions
In design protection, the images ARE the claim. Blurry photographs, inconsistent perspectives, or missing views can narrow your protection. Invest in quality photography or professional illustration.
Disclosing Before Filing
Some designated countries require absolute novelty. If you've publicly disclosed the design before filing (trade shows, e-commerce listings, social media), you may be barred from protection in those jurisdictions. File before disclosing.
Hague Application Filed.
International design protection from a single application. Monitor WIPO notifications for any provisional refusals from designated offices. Design rights typically last 15–25 years depending on jurisdiction.
Visual companion to the Article
How to File an International Design Application (Hague System)