The notion of "first-to-file" governs Industrial Design filings. A registered industrial design in Bhutan is exclusively protected in Bhutan. Other countries' protection can be secured by filling out separate applications in each country. One must file an application for registration within 12 months of the date it was originally filed in any of the Paris Convention member nations to protect the design in other countries. Since 2000, Bhutan has been a signatory to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. Only the owner of an industrial design may apply for registration, however, an agent may be permitted to do so. The applicant must appoint a Registered Agent with the Intellectual Property Division if his or her customary residence or principal place of business is outside Bhutan.
Design Registration Procedure
The following elements are required in an Industrial Design application: · A request form (Form - ID1) that has been completed in English. · A copy of a representation of the article (drawings or image) on which the design is applied. · If needed, a specimen · A declaration of uniqueness for the industrial designs is to be applied. · In addition, the filing fee must be paid in full. Industrial design registration applications must be filed with the Intellectual Property Division at: Registry of Industrial Designs Department of Intellectual Property Ministry of Economic Affairs Thimphu
