The Qatar Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has recently issued new regulations that will significantly impact intellectual property management in the country. With the introduction of Circular No. 5/2024, businesses and innovators must now adhere to updated rules regarding the validation of Power of Attorney (POA) documents, as well as new fee structures for patent and industrial design filings.
Important Changes to Note:
• Limited POA Duration: The validity of Power of Attorney documents is now capped at three years, ensuring that only up-to-date authorizations are in place.
• Enhanced Legalization Process: For POAs issued outside of Qatar, there is now a stringent legalization requirement. These documents must be processed through the Qatari Consulate in the originating country and further authenticated by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Mandatory Sworn Translations: A certified translation from an approved office must accompany all POA documents.
Additionally, under Ministerial Decision No. 60 for 2024, the PTO has reduced the fees associated with patent and industrial design applications. These new, lower fees, effective from July 11, 2024, are designed to make it easier for businesses to protect their intellectual property in Qatar. Applicants will now pay the combined filing and examination fees upfront, with the publication and grant fees due upon acceptance of the application.
At Dagher Intellectual Property, we understand how these regulatory changes can impact your business. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your intellectual property rights are safeguarded under Qatar’s new rules. Whether you need help navigating the new POA requirements or understanding the revised fee structure, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Reach out to us at info@dagher-ip.com for personalized advice and expert support. Let Dagher Intellectual Property help you protect your innovations with clarity and confidence in this evolving legal landscape.