Major Changes to EU Design Law: What You Need to Know

 

The European Union has introduced a major reform to its design protection laws—bringing them in line with today’s digital-first world. If you create, own, or manage designs in the EU, especially ones that live online or in digital formats, this update is important.

The reform, led by the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), took effect on 1 May 2025 and includes new rules, fee structures, and broader protection for digital assets.

In this article, we’ll break down what’s changed, how much it costs, and why it matters—especially when it comes to filing new designs or renewing existing ones.

Key Terminology: What’s New?

The first thing you’ll notice is the updated language:

  • RCD is now called REUD: Registered EU Design.

  • UCD is now UEUD: Unregistered EU Design.

These changes help harmonize terms across EU systems and reflect the broader scope of what can now be protected.

Filing Designs in the EU Just Got Easier—And Cheaper for Some

Under the new system, you can now include up to 50 designs in a single application—even if they fall into different product classes (known as Locarno classes). This is a big win for businesses with diverse product lines or design variations.

Filing Fees (as of May 2025):

  • 1 design: €350

  • 2 designs: €475

  • 10 designs: €1,475

  • 50 designs: €6,475

Renewal Fees Are Rising: Plan Ahead

One of the most important changes affects renewal fees. These are now significantly higher, especially if you plan to keep your design protection going for the full 25-year term.

  • First renewal (years 0–5): €150

  • Second renewal (years 6–10): €250

  • Third renewal (years 11–15): €400

  • Fourth renewal (years 16–20): €700

What Else Has Changed?

This reform isn’t just about fees—it also modernizes how designs are defined and protected.

Highlights include:

  • Digital designs are now fully covered: This includes animated graphics, GUIs (graphical user interfaces), 3D models, and even files used in virtual or augmented reality.

  • More flexible representations: Soon, you’ll be able to file videos or interactive files to show your design in action (coming in Phase II, July 2026).

  • 3D file protection: If someone copies your design using a 3D printer, the design right can now be enforced.

  • New grace period for renewals: Missed a deadline? You now have 6 months from the expiry date (not just the end of the month) to fix it—aligned with EU trademark law.

  • Repair clause clarified: Visible spare parts used solely to restore a product’s original look (like a car bumper) may not be protected under design law.

Coming Next: More Updates in 2026

Phase II of the reform arrives in July 2026 and will expand how designs can be filed, including:

  • Multiple file formats

  • Unlimited views and dynamic media (like video)

  • Faster invalidity procedures

Also, by December 2027, EU member states will update their national laws to reflect this reform—so local variations may still emerge.

Why It Matters

Whether you’re a design-focused startup, an e-commerce business, a digital creator, or a manufacturer, this reform impacts how you protect and maintain your design rights in the EU.

Filing just got easier and more affordable—especially for those with multiple products or variations. But renewing could become more expensive if you don’t plan ahead.

Work with a Local IP Expert

Understanding what designs to file, how to represent them, and when to renew can get tricky—especially with digital files, multiple formats, and upcoming legal changes.

We highly recommend working with a local EU intellectual property expert who can:

  • Advise on bulk filings to save on fees

  • Ensure digital representations meet new standards

  • Help you avoid costly renewal mistakes

Need help filing your EU design? Contact us today to get expert support with your application or renewal.

 
DesignAndras Pintz