A PCT application in India is one of the most effective ways for inventors and businesses to secure international patent rights. The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) allows innovators to file a single international application that is recognised in multiple countries. This significantly reduces the burden of applying for patents separately in each jurisdiction.
Through the PCT filing procedure in India, applicants gain a streamlined and time-efficient approach for patent protection. Whether you are an entrepreneur, researcher, or corporate entity, filing a PCT application in India ensures that your innovation is safeguarded across global markets.
The PCT application process is designed to simplify international patent protection. Instead of filing multiple patent applications in different countries at the same time, the PCT system provides a centralised route.
The applicant must first file a patent application in India with the Indian Patent Office.
Once the priority date is established, the applicant can submit the international PCT application within 12 months.
A PCT search or PCT patent search is conducted to identify prior art relevant to the invention.
Applicants may request an additional evaluation of patentability.
Within 30 or 31 months (depending on jurisdiction), the applicant enters the national phase in designated countries.
This PCT application procedure gives innovators flexibility in choosing the markets where they wish to seek patent protection.
The PCT application filing in India can be done online through the e-filing portal of the Indian Patent Office or through physical submission. Applicants must comply with formal requirements such as:-
The PCT filing procedure is particularly beneficial for applicants targeting multiple jurisdictions since it defers the heavy costs of filing in each country.
One of the common questions inventors raise is about the cost to file a PCT application. The overall PCT application cost varies depending on:-
On average, filing a PCT application in India may range between moderate to high investment, but it is cost-efficient compared to filing separate patent applications in multiple countries simultaneously.
Filing an international PCT application through India offers several advantages:-
When filing a PCT application in India, applicants must adhere to certain legal compliances:-
Ensuring accurate documentation helps in avoiding delays and office objections.
Applicants can opt for different types of PCT application filing depending on their requirements:-
Each PCT filing procedure has unique advantages depending on business goals and invention stage.
A PCT application search plays a crucial role in evaluating patentability.
By understanding the PCT search results, inventors can make informed decisions about continuing with the application.
Filing a PCT application in India requires technical expertise and a clear understanding of international law. Professional support ensures:-
Protect your innovation globally with a professionally managed PCT application in India. Whether you are an individual inventor, start-up, or large corporation, securing patent rights under the PCT filing procedure is the key to global success.
A PCT application is an international patent application that provides inventors with a single filing recognised in over 150 countries, offering a simplified global protection process.
The international phase lasts up to 30/31 months from the priority date, after which applicants must enter national phases in designated countries.
The PCT application cost depends on the number of claims, applicant type, international filing fees, and attorney charges.
A PCT application search helps assess prior art, giving applicants clarity on novelty and chances of grant in national jurisdictions.
Yes, applicants can file a direct international PCT application without first filing in India, though many choose to file a local application first.