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 offers protection only in the country in which it was applied for and granted.
Yes, you can protect your invention in multiple countries, but this requires a specific approach. Patent protection This is because it is territorial, meaning that a patent only offers protection in the country where 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 seek advice on this, as each situation requires its own approach.
Three routes to international protection
European Patent (EPO): one application for 40 European countries. PCT procedure: international route to 150+ countries worldwide. National applications: apply separately per country. Important: each patent is only valid in the country where it was granted.
For example, you can choose to have a separate patent application. This means that you must follow the patent procedures in each country where you want protection. However, this can be time-consuming and expensive, as you will have to deal with different patent granting authorities and may also need to have your application translated. You will also have to meet the specific requirements of each country. This is particularly advantageous if it concerns a limited number of countries.
For protection within Europe, you can submit a European patent application. submit. This application can offer protection in the 40 European countries that are party to the European Patent Convention (EPC). After the patent has been granted by the EPO, you must have it validated in the countries where you want protection, which sometimes requires translations and other formalities. Since 2023, there has also been a true European unitary patent which 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!
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