The official list of member countries of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) can be found on the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) website. Here is the link to the page which lists all member countries of PCT: PCT contracting states. This page lists all the member countries of the PCT, as well as the date they joined the treaty, the date of entry into force … [Read more...]
Concise Guide to the Patent Cooperation Treaty
The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international agreement allowing inventors and businesses to use one patent application that can be filed in multiple countries. A few of the benefits of the PCT are a streamlined procedure, delayed patent expenses, and improved chances of obtaining a patent. How to file an international application under the Patent Cooperation … [Read more...]
Maximize Patent Protection with the Patent Prosecution Highway and the PCT
The Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) and the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) are two powerful tools that when used in combination can: Expedite the examination of their patent application, Increase their chances of obtaining a patent, and Lower costs. What is the Patent Cooperation Treaty? The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international treaty that allows … [Read more...]
File Your International Patents Effortlessly with the PCT
The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international treaty that simplifies the procedure for filing a patent application in multiple countries. Why is filing a patent application in multiple countries complicated without the PCT? Each Patent Office in a foreign country has its own rules and preferences as to how a patent application should be filed. They may require … [Read more...]
Demystifying PCT Search and Examination: A Concise Guide
The International Search Report is received shortly after filing a PCT application. The International Searching Authority (ISA) conducts a search of prior art to assess the patentability of the invention. The ISA issues the International Search Report (ISR) with a Written Opinion (WO) on patentability. Inventors have the opportunity to briefly respond to any objections or … [Read more...]
Navigating the National Phase Entry under the PCT
The process of securing foreign patent protection through the Patent Cooperation Treaty involves two phases, namely, the International Phase and the National Phase. The International Phase begins when the PCT application is filed. The National Phase begins when the PCT application is filed with a contracting member and must be filed within 30 or 31 months from the earliest … [Read more...]
Meeting PCT Deadlines and Time Limits: A Concise Guide
Knowing the deadlines of the PCT process is critical to being successful and using the PCT to your advantage. Otherwise, you risk abandonment of your application and dedication of your invention to the public. What is the priority deadline? The first deadline is the priority deadline. The PCT application or international application must be filed within 12 months from the … [Read more...]