Patent Filing Requirements
- Description, claims, drawings (if necessary), and abstract in English language.
Notes
Japan has adopted the first-to-file system, i.e. the principle that where two parties apply for a patent for the same invention, the first party to file will be granted the patent. Accordingly, it is advisable to file as soon as possible after the invention. It is also advisable not to make the invention public before filing a patent application.
The following must be written in Japanese: the application form, title of each of the documents, and the headings of each of the sections in those documents.
Even your name or address should be transliterated into Japanese katakana characters.
In addition, the Japanese translations of those English documents must be submitted within one year and two months from the earlier of the following two dates: the filing date or the priority date (if applicable). If the translations have not been submitted to our Office within the prescribed period, the patent application is deemed to have been withdrawn.
The following must be written in Japanese: the application form, title of each of the documents, and the headings of each of the sections in those documents.
Even your name or address should be transliterated into Japanese katakana characters.
In addition, the Japanese translations of those English documents must be submitted within one year and two months from the earlier of the following two dates: the filing date or the priority date (if applicable). If the translations have not been submitted to our Office within the prescribed period, the patent application is deemed to have been withdrawn.
Annuity Requirements
- No documents are required.
Patent Search
- No documents are required.
Patent Assignment
- Power of attorney signed by the assignee.
- Deed of assignment document signed by the assignor and assignee.
Notes
- Late filing of documents: not allowed.
Patent Merger
- Power of attorney simply signed.
- Merger agreement document signed by both parties.
Notes
- Late filing of documents: not allowed.
Patent Recordal of Change
- Power of attorney reflecting the new name or address simply signed.
- Certified copy of the certificate of incorporation or an extract from the commercial register reflecting the change.
Notes
- Late filing of documents: not allowed.
Patent License
- Power of attorney signed by the licensee.
- License agreement document signed by both parties.
Notes
- Late filing of documents: not allowed.