A utility model is an unexamined industrial property right for a technical invention with a maximum term of 10 years. Utility model protection can be obtained for technical inventions (except for processes) that are new, industrially applicable and based on an inventive step. Technical inventions in this context include devices, electrical circuits and chemical substances. For example, discoveries, mathematical methods, instructions to the human mind (e.g. rules of a game or instructions for use), aesthetic creations and healing methods are not subject to utility model protection.

Although the requirements for registering a utility model are essentially the same as for a patent, the utility model is not substantively examined prior to registration. An examination of the utility model for novelty, inventive step and industrial applicability only takes place in the event of a dispute. As the utility model is not substantively but only formally examined, utility model protection is generally not only faster but also cost-effective to obtain than patent protection.