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International Patent Filing

1. What is International Patent Filing?

International patent filing is the process through which an inventor seeks patent protection for an invention in multiple countries. Since patents are territorial rights, protection must generally be obtained separately in each country. International filing allows applicants to streamline the process of seeking protection in several jurisdictions.

One of the most common systems for international patent applications is the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), which allows applicants to file a single international application that can later enter national patent systems in multiple countries.

2. Authority for International Patent Applications

International patent applications under the PCT system are administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Applicants in India can file international patent applications through the Indian Patent Office.

3. Benefits of International Patent Filing

  • Single application for multiple countries

  • Additional time to decide countries for patent protection

  • International search and preliminary examination reports

  • Simplifies the process of filing patents globally

4. PCT International Patent Filing Process

Step 1: Filing of International Application
The applicant files a PCT application with the Indian Patent Office or WIPO.

Step 2: International Search
An International Searching Authority conducts a search to identify prior art.

Step 3: Publication
The international application is published after approximately 18 months from the priority date.

Step 4: International Preliminary Examination (Optional)
An optional examination evaluates the patentability of the invention.

Step 5: National Phase Entry
The applicant enters the national phase in chosen countries, usually within 30 or 31 months from the priority date.

5. Documents Required for International Patent Filing

Typical documents include:

  • Patent specification (description, claims, drawings)

  • Applicant and inventor details

  • Priority document (if claiming priority)

  • Power of attorney (if filed through an agent)

6. Validity of International Patents

The PCT application itself does not grant a patent. Instead, it facilitates filing in multiple countries. Patents are ultimately granted by the national patent offices of each country, typically with a validity of 20 years from the filing date.

7. Our International Patent Services

Our firm provides assistance with:

  • PCT patent filing and strategy

  • International patent drafting

  • National phase entry in multiple jurisdictions

  • Patent prosecution and advisory

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