Russia: New Law Expands the Use of Electronic Technologies in the Registration of IP Rights

Part IV of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation  has been amended. The new provisions expand the use of electronic technologies in the registration of IP rights. On July 20, 2020, federal law No. 217-ФЗ was signed by the Russian president, and it will take effect on January 21, 2021.

After the federal law “On Amendments to Part Four of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation” (dated July 20, 2020, No. 217-FZ) takes effect, documents of title (except for patents for secret inventions) will be issued electronically. Applicants can still choose to receive documents of title on paper.

Also, applicants will be able to attach 3D models of intellectual property objects (inventions, utility models, industrial designs, and trademarks) to their electronic applications. The 3D models will not be published. The format requirements for 3D models will be established by the Russian Ministry for Economic Development, which regulates Rospatent’s public services.