Are you an inventor?
You may review other sections that may be of your interest:
The PCT Application Process
1. Filing the Application
Option A: File nationally first, then submit a PCT within 12 months.
Option B: File a PCT directly; this becomes your priority date.
2. International Search & Written Opinion (3–7 months)
A Searching Authority performs a prior art search and issues a written opinion.
3. Publication (18 months from priority)
Your application becomes public via WIPO, including the search report.
4. Optional – Chapter II Examination
Submit amendments or arguments to strengthen your application before national filing.
5. National Phase Entry (30 or 31 months)
Choose the countries where you seek protection. At this stage, it’s essential to evaluate your budget for each jurisdiction and understand local requirements, such as translations, official fees, deadlines, and the need to appoint local agents.
Why Choose the PCT Route?
01
Early Patentability Insight
Applicants receive a Written Opinion and Search Report early in the process, offering valuable feedback on novelty and inventiveness before investing in multiple jurisdictions.
02
Global Filing Efficiency
With a single application in one language, the PCT provides a unified structure and simplifies the process of filing in over 150 countries, reducing administrative workload and legal complexity.
03
Improves Examination Outcomes
National patent offices often refer to the international search results and written opinion, which can speed up examination and increase the chances of success during national phase entry.
04
Delays Major Costs
The PCT system defers national filing expenses, like translations, local attorney fees, and government charges, by up to 30 or 31 months, giving applicants more time to plan and secure funding.
How can Patentarea support you through the process ?
Patentarea offers a full spectrum of PCT services tailored to IP firms, innovators and businesses operating in international markets. We manage the entire process, from initial application drafting and priority claims to Chapter II filings and national phase entries.
Our services include:
- Preparing and filing PCT applications via WIPO or national offices
- Coordinating international searches and translations
- Filing Chapter II Demands with strategic amendments
- Handling national phase entries in every region, including Europe, Asia, and Latin America
- Managing deadlines, formalities, and examiner communications
With our international attorney network and in-depth knowledge of local patent systems, we ensure your international patent strategy will improve their chances of success.
Book a Meeting with Our Experts
Get All The Insights: Access our Full International PCT Patent Guide.
FAQ
Is a PCT Application a Patent?
No, a PCT application provides a pathway to file national or regional applications but does not itself result in a patent grant.
Do I need to enter every country listed in the PCT system?
No, you may choose which countries or regions to pursue during the national phase. Each requires its own entry, translation, fees, and local representation.
Can I file a PCT Application without a prior National Filing?
Yes, but if you want to claim priority, a national or regional application must have been filed within the past 12 months.
Is the PCT the same as the Paris Convention?
No, they are not the same. While both systems allow you to claim priority from an earlier national application, the main difference is the timeframe for filing in other countries. Under the Paris Convention, you must file separate national applications within 12 months from the priority date.
In contrast, the PCT system lets you file an international application that preserves your priority date and extends the deadline to enter national phases to 30 or 31 months, giving you more time to evaluate markets, seek funding, or refine your strategy before committing to specific countries.
How long does the PCT process take?
Applicants typically enter the national phase by 30 months from the priority date. Examination times vary by country but can take an additional 1–3 years depending on the jurisdiction.
What are the costs involved?
Expect to pay international filing, search, and transmission fees at the outset, followed by national fees, translations, and local attorney costs during the national phase. Total costs vary significantly based on the number of countries selected.