Design is defined by the visible appearance of a product. Even if a product has a technical function, only its appearance is protected by design protection. The goods can be both handmade and mass-produced. Examples of goods that can enjoy design protection include furniture, clothing, packaging, machinery, tools, foodstuffs and jewellery. A product need not be in three-dimensional form to enjoy protection. It can be two-dimensional, such as a screen display on a computer, a graphic symbol, or a decoration on another product, such as wallpaper. The more original and innovative the design is, the greater protection.

The Icelandic Patent Office classifies designs in accordance with the provisions of the Locarno Agreement on International Classification.

Applicants may request the postponement of a registration (and publication) for up to 6 months from the application date, if they are of the opinion that such postponement is to their advantage. Such a request means that images of the design are kept secret.