Patent Application Filing and Registration in Bangladesh

Patents in Bangladesh are essential for inventors, entrepreneurs, and businesses to secure their intellectual property. Governed by the Bangladesh Patent and Design Act, the system ensures legal protection for inventions, utility models, and designs. Filing a patent application in Bangladesh gives innovators exclusive rights to use, manufacture, or sell their creations in the country.
Bangladesh, as an emerging technology and industrial hub in South Asia, has been strengthening its intellectual property regime to encourage innovation, protect inventors, and attract foreign investment. Understanding the patent system is crucial for local and international businesses looking to operate or expand in Bangladesh.

Overview of Patent Protection

The Bangladesh patent system works on a first-to-file principle, meaning the first person to submit a valid patent application in Bangladesh is granted rights, regardless of who created the invention first.

Patents protect:

  • Technical inventions (products or processes)
  • Utility models (practical improvements)
  • Industrial designs (visual appearance)


Foreign applicants can file patents in Bangladesh but must appoint a registered patent agent or attorney to act on their behalf. This ensures compliance with all procedural and legal requirements.

Types of Patents in Bangladesh

1. Invention Patents

An invention patent safeguards a technical solution, method, or product that is novel, inventive, and industrially applicable.
Key features:
• Duration: 20 years from filing date
• Requires full examination by the Department of Patents, Designs & Trademarks (DPDT)
• Protects innovations in pharmaceuticals, engineering, agriculture, and technology

2. Utility Model Patents

Utility models protect practical improvements in products, especially in manufacturing or consumer goods.
Key features:
• Duration: 10 years from filing
• Faster approval compared to invention patents
• Often used for machinery, tools, and small technological solutions

3. Design Patents

Design patents safeguard the appearance or aesthetic aspects of products, such as shape, pattern, or colour.
Key features:
• Duration: 15 years from filing date
• Protects product aesthetics and market identity
• Valuable for consumer goods, packaging, and industrial design

4. Plant and Biotechnology Patents

Bangladesh also allows protection for new plant varieties and eligible biotechnological inventions, following specific regulatory guidelines.

Filing a Patent Application in Bangladesh

Filing a patent in Japan involves several structured stages:-

1. Pre-Filing Research

Conduct a search to ensure novelty and avoid conflicts.

2. Drafting the Application

Prepare detailed claims, description, drawings, and an abstract.

3. Submission to DPDT

Applications must be submitted in English or Bengali, following prescribed formats.

4. Formal Examination

Officials check for procedural compliance.

5. Substantive Examination

Invention patents are reviewed for novelty, inventiveness, and industrial applicability. Utility models and designs usually undergo simplified review.

6. Publication

Applications are published to allow public inspection.

7. Grant of Patent

Upon approval, rights are granted and enforceable. Maintenance fees must be paid annually.

Attention to documentation and procedural rules is essential for a successful filing.

Documentation and Legal Compliance

Applicants must submit:-

  • Completed application form
  • Detailed description with claims
  • Drawings and abstract
  • Power of attorney (for foreign applicants)
  • Priority documents if claiming international priority


Strict compliance with Bangladesh Patent Law ensures enforceable rights and avoids delays.

Benefits of Patents in Bangladesh

Securing a patent offers multiple advantages:-

  • Exclusive Rights – Protect inventions from unauthorised use or commercial exploitation.
  • Market Security – Safeguard innovations in an emerging industrial economy.
  • Commercial Credibility – Patents enhance business reputation and attract investment.
  • Encouragement of Innovation – Legal protection promotes further research and development.


For inventors looking to expand internationally, international patent filing under treaties such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) allows filing in multiple countries while retaining the original filing date.

Challenges in the Bangladesh Patent System

Applicants may face certain challenges:-

  • Language and Translation – English or Bengali is required; accuracy is critical.
  • Examination Duration – Invention patents may take several years to process.
  • Enforcement – Enforcing rights may require legal expertise, particularly for foreign entities.
  • Cost – Filing, attorney, and maintenance fees can accumulate.


Being aware of these challenges helps applicants plan efficiently and avoid procedural issues.

Filing patents in Bangladesh is essential for innovators seeking protection in a rapidly developing market. By understanding International Patent Law and filing in Bangladesh process, applicants can secure exclusive rights, encourage innovation, and strengthen their competitive advantage. Properly filed patents provide legal protection, enhance commercial credibility, and support regional and global business strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a patent in Bangladesh?

Invention patents: 2–5 years; utility models and designs: often within 1–2 years.

Can foreign applicants file patents directly in Bangladesh?

Yes, but a registered patent agent or attorney must be appointed.

What is the term of protection in Bangladesh?

Invention patents - 20 years from the date of filing.
Utility model patents - 10 years from the date of filing.
Design patents - 15 years from the date of filing.

Are filings accepted in English in Bangladesh?

Yes, patent applications in Bangladesh can be filed in English or Bengali. If filed in Bengali, an accurate English translation must be provided for official processing.

Can patents be renewed in Bangladesh?

Patents in Bangladesh cannot exceed their statutory term. To maintain validity, annual renewal fees must be paid throughout the term of the patent.

Drop Us Your Enquiry

Cookie Consent with Real Cookie Banner