The International Route of Design Protection under the Hague system can be followed by those who would like to obtain protection in countries and intergovernmental organizations that are members of the Hague Union through a single international application filed with the International Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). There are several reasons to prefer the international route, such as seeking for protection in multiple markets especially if these are located in different regions, as part of an export strategy. Finally, there can be budgetary or time constraints for the registration and management of one’s designs.
The following Guide is intended for potential applicants for and holders of international registrations of designs under the Hague System. The purpose of this Guide is to answer to basic questions about the Hague system works and how to use for the protection of designs internationally, as well as how to benefit from the customized tools designed to assist potential users of the system in the filing of
their applications and the management of their international registrations.