October 11, 2016 [ Firm News ]
Points to Note regarding Hague Design Application designating Japan

When you file a Hague Design Application designating Japan, please note the following:

! Declaration of “exception to lack of novelty” accompanied by supporting documents may be made directly to JPO within 30 days* from the date of International Publication. ! Priority documents must be submitted directly to JPO within 3 months* from the date of International Publication. *These deadlines are not extendable. Please be careful not to miss the deadlines!

We, therefore, strongly recommend that you take the procedures below whenever you file a Hague Design Application designating Japan.

Before International Publication by WIPO
　　　　(most preferably as soon as possible after filing the application)

1. Inform a representative residing in Japan (JP representative) that a Hague Design Application claiming priority was filed, and/or that it is necessary to declare exception to lack of novelty.

You should send the following information and documents (electronic data is acceptable) to the JP representative:

Date of filing with WIPO Copy of the application filed with WIPO International Registration Number (indicated on the Notification sent to you from WIPO after the filing of the application)

The JP representative will inform you of any other necessary documents, such as a Power of Attorney, etc.

2. Upon completion of the necessary documents, send by mail the following documents (in paper form) to the JP representative. (Note: Electronic versions of the documents are NOT acceptable to JPO).

Examples:

POA signed by the Applicant (the representative in case of a legal entity) Priority documents Supporting documents proving that the design is entitled to an exception to lack of novelty Other necessary documents

After International Publication by WIPO

3. Promptly notify the JP representative of International Publication of the application.

Note: WIPO does not notify you regarding International Publication. Thus, you will need to check the WIPO website (http://www.wipo.int/haguebulletin/?locale=en) once a week around the scheduled date of International Publication.

For further information, please refer to the following URL:

http://www.jpo.go.jp/english/applications/pdf/hague_notes_e/notes_e.pdf

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.