How Does the Hague System Work?
WIPO's Hague System allows you to secure design protection simultaneously in multiple countries or regions through one international application, in one language with one set of fees. Note: There is no pre-requirement to file a national or regional design application in order to use the Hague System.
You can file an international application under the Hague System if:
- you are a national of i.) a contracting party or of ii.) a member state of an intergovernmental organization which is a contracting party;
- you have a domicile or habitual residence in a contracting party; or
- you have a real and effective industrial or commercial establishment in a contracting party.
You can obtain protection within any contracting party, including member states of an intergovernmental organization party to the Hague Agreement. If you wish to protect a design in a jurisdiction that is not party to the Hague Agreement, you will have to file a national (or regional) application.