Yes, you can protect your invention in multiple countries, but this requires a specific approach. This is because patent protection is territorial, which means that a patent only provides protection in the country in which it is applied for and granted. If you want to protect your invention in multiple countries, there are a number of different ways to do this. It is useful to get advice on this as each situation requires its own approach.

For example, you can choose to file a patent application separately in each country. This means following the patent procedures in each country where you want protection. However, this can be time-consuming and expensive, as you have to deal with different patent granting authorities and may also have to have translations of your application made. You will also have to meet the specific requirements of each country. There is a particular advantage if this involves a limited number of countries.

For protection within Europe, you can file a European patent application. This application can offer protection in the 38 European countries party to the European Patent Convention (EPC). After the patent is granted by the EPO, you need to have it validated in the countries where you want protection, which sometimes requires translations and some formalities. Since 2023, there has also been a truly European patent that is currently valid in 18 European countries.

Another option is to file an international patent application (PCT). This system allows you to apply for protection in more than 150 countries with a single application. A PCT application goes through an international phase, followed by national/regional phases in which you decide in which countries you actually want to pursue the application. This gives you more time and flexibility to decide where you want protection, and can help protect your invention more broadly.

The choice depends on your goals, budget, and where you want protection. Have another question about this, contact please feel free to contact us. We are here to help you. We like to do that and do it well!