In French Law, “invention-creations” include Patent, Certificate of Utility and Design.
“Patent” means any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof. Once granted, it can last as long as 20 years.
"Certificate of Utility" means any new technical solution relating to the shape, the structure, or their combination, of a product or a method, which is fit for practical use. Once granted, it can last as long as 10 years. In France, there is no substantive examination for Certificate of Utility.
“Design” means any new, original and ornamental design for an article of manufacture. Once granted, it can last as long as 25 years.
The applicant can only enter France via EPO by PCT national phase within 31 months, or by Paris Convention Route within 12 months from the priority date.
The Reasons to Choose France:
A Developed Country with a Mature Market and Effective Patent Right Protection
Eligible to Convert a Patent Application into a Certificate of Utility
Most Likely to Obtain a Patent Certificate at the End of the Day