Patents - General Information

  • You can claim priority according to Paris Convention within: 12 months from the first filing date.
  • Member of: PCT, Paris Convention, ARIPO.
  • Period of protection of a patent: 15 years.
  • Annuities: renewal fees are due annually commencing from the first anniversary of the filing date. A patent is protected for five (5) years and this term may be extended for a further two periods of five years each provided that a proof is furnished that the invention is being properly worked in Lesotho at the date of the request or that there are legitimate reasons for failing to work the invention.
  • Allowed time to submit the assignment deed from the date of signing the agreement: no time restrictions.