Industrial Design Registration

Design registration protects a product's appearance rather than its function. Before filing, we assess whether the design is new and has individual character, and we prepare the images and description in a registrable form. Correct visual presentation is critical to clearly defining the scope of protection. We carry out the application, publication and registration stages with our expert team.

The appearance of your product is a commercial value that directly influences customer choice. A registered design grants the right to prevent the unauthorised production and sale of products with an identical or notably similar appearance. In sectors where appearance is prominent, such as textiles, furniture, packaging, jewellery and consumer goods, design registration becomes decisive in competition.

At Yedi Kıta Patent, we provide design registration not only domestically but also abroad through our representatives worldwide. We facilitate the protection of exporting companies' product designs in target markets. With our 20 years of experience, we stand by you in every stage, from application to registration and from opposition to the fight against imitation.

After registration, we provide protection through legal monitoring against imitation and infringement attempts targeting your design. This way the design, the product of your effort and investment, is placed under legal assurance.

Questions and Answers: The Design Registration Process

How does design registration proceed?

After filing, the Office carries out a formal examination and a novelty review; a design found acceptable is registered and published in the Bulletin. A three-month opposition window then runs; if no opposition is filed or oppositions are overcome, the registration becomes final.

Can publication be deferred?

Yes; upon request, publication may be deferred for up to 30 months from the filing date. This is an important confidentiality tool for designers who have not yet launched their product.

What happens if an opposition is filed?

We submit counter-arguments against oppositions filed within the three-month window; oppositions are assessed by the Board. Court action remains available against an unfavourable decision.

How long does protection last?

A registered design is protected for 5 years from the filing date and may be renewed in 5-year periods up to a total of 25 years.

Are unregistered designs protected?

Designs first disclosed to the public in Türkiye enjoy 3 years of unregistered protection; however, this only covers copying and carries a heavier burden of proof. Registration is recommended for robust protection.