yes. Prior to patent grant/rejection, the patent type can be converted from utility model to invention at the request of the applicant. Can only be converted once.
yes. If multiple designs have at least one of the same category, a maximum of 50 designs can be included in one design.
11 months. If an expedited request is made, granted can be obtained in about 3-4 months.
via Paris Convention : 12 months from earliest priority date.
via Nationalization of PCT : 30 months from the earliest priority date.
Validation of European Patent in EPO member states: within 3 months from the date of grant of the European patent.
no
yes
yes
20 years. Patented medicines and plant protection new varieties can obtain an additional 5-year renewal period, and children's medicines can obtain an additional half-year patent protection period.
- via Paris Convention : 12 months from earliest priority date.
- via Nationalization of PCT : 30 months from the earliest priority date.
- Validation of European Patent in EPO member states: within 3 months from the date of grant of the European patent.
A novelty grace period of 6 months prior to the filing date/priority date may be granted if the invention is disclosed as a result of apparent misuse by the applicant or its former right holders, or if the invention is exhibited at an official or officially recognized exhibition.
Reinstatement of priority on grounds of "due care" and "unintentional/due care" accepted.