We are an intellectual property consulting firm with many years of experience registering patents, utility models, and trademarks in Russia. We work with engineers, startups, and individual inventors. The purpose of this article is to show how to obtain a patent for a utility model: faster, more reliably, and with minimal cost.
What a Utility Model Is and Why It’s Considered “Simplified”
A utility model is a technical solution relating to a device that must meet two key requirements:
- Novelty — the essential features of the model must be unknown from prior art.
- Industrial applicability — the solution must be capable of industrial production or use.
Key differences from an invention:
- No requirement of inventive step (lower threshold of patentability).
- Protection term is 10 years, without renewal.
- Registration procedure is simplified compared to inventions — less bureaucracy, quicker decision-making.
Legal Framework
The following laws and regulations govern utility model registration in Russia:
- Civil Code of the Russian Federation, Part IV, Art. 1351 “Conditions of Patentability of a Utility Model.”
- Article 1354 certifies priority, authorship, and exclusive rights.
- Rospatent rules for state registration and issuance of utility model patents.
What the “Simplified” Procedure Really Means
The simplified procedure offers:
- Shorter timelines: registration usually takes about 6–10 months.
- Reduced formal requirements: simpler descriptions, fewer drawings.
- Lower fees compared to inventions.
But “simplified” does not mean “automatic.” Novelty and industrial applicability remain mandatory.
How We Work with Clients: Step by Step
| Stage | Our Actions | Time / Resources | Possible Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idea → Prep | Discuss whether it’s a device; search Rospatent databases and publications. | 1–2 weeks | May turn out to be prior art or not a “device.” |
| Drafting | Prepare description, claims, abstract, drawings; in Russian. | 1–2 weeks | Errors in claims, poor drawings. |
| Filing | Submit, pay state fees, choose acceleration. | Formal exam 1–2 months; substantive 6–8 months | Formal errors; examiner queries. |
| Patent Grant | Patent issued, data published in registry. | ~6–10 months | Delays, possible future challenges. |
When the Simplified Route for an Utility Model Is Most Useful
- For small businesses and inventors needing quick protection.
- For solutions that are new but not “revolutionary.”
- For proving rights before launch or seeking investors.
- For those lacking resources for a full invention patent.
Risks and Limitations
- Insufficient novelty: prior publications can block registration.
- Weak claims: vague or incomplete descriptions cause refusal.
- Court disputes: utility models in Russia are often challenged in litigation.
- Non-renewable: term capped at 10 years.
Utility Model Case Example
A startup created a portable magnetic smartphone holder.
- Confirmed novelty and industrial use.
- Prior art search showed no identical solutions.
- Drafted precise claims and drawings.
- Filed application — formal exam ~1.5 months, substantive ~5 months.
- Patent granted in ~7 months.
Costs and Timelines (as of 2025)
| Parameter | Typical Cost (Russia) | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Government fees | Lower than inventions; depends on docs and applicants. | Formal exam 1–2 months; substantive 4–8; total ~6–10 months. |
| Accelerated review | Possible with error-free docs. | As fast as 3–4 months. |
Pro Tips
- Draft clear claims covering essential features.
- Use drawings for clarity.
- Avoid translation errors or typos.
- Track similar cases in Rospatent for insights.
Conclusion
Utility models are a great tool for protecting “small” inventions: faster, cheaper, and simpler than invention patents — especially for startups and innovators.
But “simplified” doesn’t mean “no standards.” Novelty, industrial applicability, and precise drafting remain critical.
If you’re considering protection for a utility model, consult a patent attorney first. A professional prior art search and risk assessment will save you time and money.
Disclaimer: Information current as of Aug–Sep 2025. Fees, laws, and practices may change. For tailored advice, consult a qualified Russian patent attorney.
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