The JPO conducts formality examination only for utility model patent applications.
5-7 months
yes. Within 3 years from the date of application, or within 3 months from the date of receipt of the rejection decision, the patent type can be changed from design to invention/utility model at the request of the applicant.
A conversion fee shall be paid for patent type conversion. Once the original patent application is converted, it will be deemed withdrawn.
The design does not lose its novelty if it is disclosed by the designer in Japan within 12 months from the filing date/priority date.
1-2 years
Reinstatement of priority on grounds of "due care" accepted.
- Inventions under the via Paris Convention : 12 months from the earliest priority date.
- via Nationalization of PCT inventions: 30 months from the earliest priority date.
yes
Inventors have a novelty grace period of 12 months after disclosure (including sale).
yes.
- Within 3 years from the filing date, the patent type can be changed from utility model to invention upon request of the applicant
- Utility model patents can be converted to design patents at any time
A conversion fee shall be paid for patent type conversion. Once the original patent application is converted, it will be deemed withdrawn.
Reinstatement of priority is accepted on grounds of "due care."