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 Once the original patent application is converted, it will be deemed withdrawn.
The JPO conducts formality examination only for utility model patent applications.
- 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.
1-2 years
Filing Language: Japanese Necessary documents:
- Exterior Design Picture (Six Views)
- A Brief Description
Attachments (if any):
- Scanned Copy of Certified Priority Document / DAS
- Declaration of Ownership/Certification of Employment/Assignment of priority
- Assignment for Patent Right Transfer
3-6 months
5-7 months
yes
Filing Language: Japanese
via Paris Convention via Nationalization of PCT Necessary documents:
- Abstract
- Abstract Drawing
- Claim
- Specification
- Drawing
Necessary documents:
- Abstract
- Abstract Drawing
- Claim
- Specification
- Drawing
Attachments (if any)
- Scanned Copy of Certified Priority Document / DAS
- Declaration of Ownership/Certification of Employment/Assignment of priority
- Assignment for Patent Right Transfer
- Notification issued by CNIPA notify the applicant the application has passed through the security review
Attachments (if any)
- WIPO Publication
- ISR/IPRP
- Entering the Japanese national phase 19/28/34/41 amended
- Declaration of Ownership/Certification of Employment/Assignment of priority
- Assignment for Patent Right Transfer
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.
Inventors have a novelty grace period of 12 months after disclosure (including sale).