How can I protect my patent internationally?
March 13, 2022 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Otto Kock
Dear Patent Attorney,
My name is Tobias Michels and I have recently developed an innovative product for which I would like to apply for a patent. The Patent Office in Germany has already granted my application, but now I am wondering how I can protect my patent internationally.
My product has the potential to be successful in the global market, and I want to ensure that my invention is protected from imitators. I am concerned that without international protection, my idea could be copied and commercialized by others.
Therefore, I would like to know from you what options exist to protect my patent internationally. Is there a way to apply for my patent in multiple countries simultaneously? How does the process of applying for an international patent work and what steps need to be taken? What are the costs involved and how long does it take for my patent to be protected internationally?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with more information on this topic and suggest possible solutions. It is important to me to protect my intellectual property to the best of my ability, and I am willing to take the necessary steps to ensure this.
Thank you in advance for your support and guidance.
Sincerely,
Tobias Michels
Dear Mr. Michels,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the international protection of your patent. It is understandable that you are concerned about the safety of your invention and want to ensure that your intellectual property is protected from imitators. I will be happy to provide you with more information on this topic and suggest possible solutions.
To protect your patent internationally, there are various options. One option is to file an international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The PCT allows you to file a patent application in multiple countries simultaneously. By filing an international application with the PCT, you will receive an international search report on the state of the art, which will help you assess the patentability of your invention in different countries.
After filing an international application with the PCT, you have the opportunity to enter a national phase in the selected contracting states within 30 months. In the national phase, you must comply with the requirements and procedures of each country to protect your patent in those countries.
The costs of filing an international patent under the PCT can vary depending on the number of selected contracting states. It is advisable to inquire about the costs in advance and conduct a cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the economic feasibility of internationally protecting your invention.
The duration until your patent is internationally protected depends on various factors, such as the processing time of national patent offices and the complexity of your invention. It typically takes several years for your patent to be granted in all selected contracting states.
I recommend that you consult with an experienced patent attorney to assist you in filing and enforcing your international patent. An attorney can help you take the right steps and ensure that your intellectual property is protected to the fullest extent.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Sincerely,
Otto Kock, Patent Attorney
