In Chile, a registrable design must be new and possess its own original character, protected through a descriptive memorandum and representations — drawings or photographs — filed with the application. Because INAPI examines novelty substantively before grant, and the process includes a publication and opposition step, preparing a strong application from the outset is the clearest way to a smooth registration.
A registered Chilean design gives you documented, dated proof of ownership over your product's appearance, already tested for novelty by INAPI during prosecution — protection that isn't reliably available through trademark or copyright alone. Brealant manages the application so this protection is secured correctly from filing through to grant.
Certain elements cannot be protected through design registration, including
Function Alone
Features dictated solely by the product's technical function, rather than its appearance, generally aren't protectable as a design.
Non-Novel Designs
Designs identical or substantially similar to something already publicly disclosed before filing.
Your Own Prior Disclosure
Designs you've already sold or shown publicly before filing, subject to limited exceptions.
Methods or Ideas
Underlying methods, ideas, or concepts, as opposed to their specific visual expression.
Internal, Non-Visible Features
Features not visible during normal use of the product are generally excluded.
INAPI's substantive examination tests each application against these requirements before any design is granted.
A registered design in Chile protects various visual elements of a product. The protection extends to
Shape
The three-dimensional form of the product.
Lines & Contours
The specific outline and silhouette that define the product's appearance.
Ornamentation
Decorative features and surface finishes applied to the product.
Overall Visual Impression
The combined appearance created by these elements, as filed in the representations.
By partnering with design experts in Chile, you can ensure your product's appearance is properly documented and protected from copying.
The cost of design registration depends on the number of designs filed and views submitted
INAPI charges official fees at filing and, if the application is approved, at grant — Brealant confirms the current peso amounts before filing.
Brealant's professional fee covers preparing representations, managing examination, and filing, quoted upfront based on the number of designs.
INAPI's substantive examination tests each application against these requirements before any design is granted.
A single, non-renewable term of 10 years, counted from the filing date.
Yes — unlike some jurisdictions, INAPI conducts a genuine substantive examination of novelty and original character before a Chilean design is granted.
Generally no — prior public disclosure of your own design can destroy novelty, subject to limited grace period exceptions, so timing matters.
The overall visual appearance of a product resulting from its shape, lines, contours, or ornamentation.
Typically several months to around a year, since the process includes substantive novelty examination as well as a publication and opposition period.
Any individual or legal entity, Chilean or foreign, can apply; foreign applicants must appoint a Chilean-domiciled representative, which Brealant provides.
Official INAPI fees are charged at filing and again on grant, calculated per design — Brealant quotes the exact peso amount plus our professional fee before you commit.
Clear graphic representations or photographs showing the design from the necessary views, a product description, and applicant details — a power of attorney can follow after filing.
Yes, INAPI allows multiple designs to be filed together in certain circumstances, typically within the same product class, which can reduce overall filing costs.
No — unlike some jurisdictions, there are no renewal or annuity payments, since the registration runs for its single non-renewable 10-year term once granted.
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