Phase I of the changes brought in by the European Union Design Regulation took effect on 1 May 2025.

These changes include:

New terminology: Registered Community designs (RCDs) are now called registered EU designs (REUDs).

Fees: There is now a single fee for registration and publication. The fee for each extra design in a multiple application is €125. Renewal fees increase, with the fee depending on the date of receipt of the renewal request.

Definitions: The definition of “design” has been broadened to include animation, movement and transition. The definition of “product” has been revised to include non-physical items such as digital creations, including graphic works, logos, user interfaces and other non-physical forms.

Filing and examination: Centralised REUD filing is now mandatory and a fee is required to establish a filing date. The unity of class requirement for multiple design applications has been abolished.

New exclusive rights and limitations: The exclusive rights granted by a design registration extend to 3D printing. Two limitations have been introduced relating to (1) the identification or referencing of a product by design rightsholders and (2) acts of commentary, critique or parody.

Design symbol: REUD holders can now mark their products with the design notice (pictured above).

Repair clause: Design protection will not apply to component parts of a complex product used to restore a complex product’s original appearance. This exception applies exclusively to component parts used for repair purposes.

Phase II of the reforms comes into effect on 1 July 2026 and includes changes to the design representation regime.

Read more about the reform on EUIPO’s website.