What is the Process of Obtaining an International Patent?
To obtain an international patent, inventors typically follow the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) process. The PCT allows inventors to file a single patent application, which can then be pursued in multiple countries. This process includes:
1. Filing a PCT Application: Submit a single international application. 2. International Search: An International Searching Authority (ISA) conducts a search on the prior art. 3. International Publication: The application is published, typically 18 months after the priority date. 4. National Phase Entry: The applicant decides in which countries to pursue patent protection.
