Which is the competent authority for utility model patent applications in Japan?

• via Paris Convention : 6 months from earliest priority date.
• Hague Agreement route: 6 months from earliest priority date.

yes

Reinstatement of priority is accepted on grounds of "due care."

Inventors have a novelty grace period of 12 months after disclosure (including sale).

Japan Patent Office

English: Japan Patent Office, abbreviation: JPO

Website: Japan Patent Office (jpo.go.jp)

Japanese Invention Patent Search: Japan Platform for Patent Information｜J-PlatPat [JPP] (inpit.go.jp)

25 years

1-2 years

The JPO conducts formality examination and substantive examination of invention patent applications. The applicant should submit a request for substantive examination within 3 years from the filing date. The JPO makes an granted decision if it determines after review that no grounds for refusal have been found.

10 years

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.