What is utility model?
Utility model is similar to a patent. Utility model is an exclusive right granted for an invention, which allows the right holder to prevent others from commercially using the protected invention, without his authorization, for a limited period of time. According to the law, utility models protect technical solutions that are new, industrially applicable and are the result of inventive step.

How long is utility model valid for?
The effects of protection are the same as in the case of patents, but utility model is valid for four years after filing of utility model application or after filing of prior patent application with respect to the same object. Term of validity of utility model may be prolonged by the Office upon request of the owner of utility model two times, each time for three years, i.e. for a total period of 10 years.

How to get a utility model in Slovakia?
The utility model can be obtained by filing an application for a utility model in the Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic. After application filing, an application procedure is followed. The Office examines only the formal requirements, i.e. whether the application contains all the requisites and does not examine the condition of novelty and inventive step. The examination of these conditions takes place only in a possible cancellation procedure.