Although there is a Registry of works, it is not mandatory to register a work therein. New inventions which are subject to industrial exploitation may be patented. Inventions contrary to law or public morals or order are unregistrable. The period of protection is 20 years from the date of application. Application for protection is dealt with by the Central Patent Office in Rome.
Rights relating to patents are assignable and licensable.
A patent assignment is fully perfected even if not registered with the Central Patent Office. Such registration serves only to determine priority.