Design registration is one of the most effective ways to protect the visual features of a product. Whether you are a startup, manufacturer, creator, or business in Greater Noida, securing your design helps prevent others from copying the unique appearance of your product. This guide explains everything you need to know—from what a design is to filing, fees, timelines, and practical tips.
What Design Registration Protects
Design registration safeguards the aesthetic aspects of a product. This includes:
- Shape
- Configuration
- Surface pattern
- Ornamentation
- Composition of lines or colours
It does not protect the functional or technical aspects of an article—only how it looks. Your design must be new, original, and not previously published.
Filing Design Applications from Greater Noida
Applicants in Greater Noida can file their design registration:
Online (Most preferred)
The official e-filing portal for designs allows quick filing from anywhere. It provides faster acknowledgment, digital receipt, and smooth submission of documents.
Physical Filing
Applicants may also file at the Delhi office (jurisdiction for Greater Noida). Final examination and registration are processed at the Designs Office, Kolkata.
Documents Required
Before filing, prepare these essential documents:
- Form 1 (Application for Design Registration)
- Clear representations of the design (drawings or high-quality photographs)
- Front view
- Rear view
- Left & Right sides
- Top & Bottom
- Perspective view
- Statement of novelty (what part of the design is new)
- Power of Attorney if you file through an agent
- Priority document (if you are claiming an earlier foreign filing date)
- Proof of entity (to claim MSME/startup/individual fee category)
4. Step-by-Step Design Filing Process
Step 1: Conduct a Design Search
Check whether a similar design already exists. This helps avoid objections and rejection.
Step 2: Prepare Design Representations
These are the core of your application. Ensure the images or drawings are clear, consistent, and show all angles.
Step 3: Fill Form 1
Include applicant details, class of the design, and a description.
Step 4: File the Application
Submit online or physically. Once accepted, you receive:
- Filing date
- Application number
Step 5: Examination
The Designs Office examines:
- Novelty
- Proper representations
- Compliance with design rules
If objections arise, you receive an Examination Report and must reply within the given timeline.
Step 6: Registration & Certificate
After acceptance, the design is:
- Registered
- Entered in the design register
- Published
You then receive the official Design Registration Certificate.
Government Fee Structure
Fees depend on the type of applicant:
- Individual / Natural Person / Start-up / Small Entity / MSME – lower fee category
- Others / Large Entities – higher fee category
Fees apply for:
- Filing
- Examination
- Renewal (after 10 years)
Exact amounts may vary with rule updates, so always check the latest applicable fee before filing.
Timelines for Registration
The entire process usually takes:
- 6–10 months (if no objections)
- Longer if there are objections or hearings
Early preparation and proper drawings can significantly reduce delays.
Validity and Renewal
- Initial protection: 10 years from the date of registration
- Renewal: Additional 5 years (total 15 years)
- Renewal must be filed before expiry to maintain rights.
Common Reasons for Objections
Design applications are often objected due to:
Poor Quality Representations
Unclear drawings, inconsistent views, or blurred images.
Lack of Novelty
If your design resembles an existing one.
Functional features claimed
Design must be aesthetic, not purely functional.
Incorrect Class Selection
Selecting the wrong Locarno Class for the article.
Practical Tips for Applicants in Greater Noida
- Prefer online filing for speed and convenience.
- Do not publicly disclose your design before filing—it may affect novelty.
- Use NDAs when sharing prototypes with manufacturers.
- Ensure ownership—employees or freelancers must assign rights to your business before filing.
- Prepare high-quality, consistent drawings as they determine the scope of your protection.
- Claim MSME or startup benefits if eligible to reduce fees.
- Keep timely reminders for responding to objections and renewals.
Why Design Registration Matters
A registered design gives you the exclusive right to use the appearance of your product and prevent others from copying or imitating it. It is useful for:
- Product manufacturers
- Startups launching innovative products
- Fashion and lifestyle brands
- Furniture and interior design companies
- Packaging designers
- Electronic and industrial product makers
Registration strengthens your market position and creates legal protection against imitators.
Conclusion
Design registration in Greater Noida is straightforward when done with proper documentation, clear representations, and timely filing. It enhances your product’s market value and legally protects its visual identity for up to 15 years. Whether you are a designer, manufacturer, or business owner, registering your design ensures you stay a step ahead in a competitive market.