Which is the competent authority for patent applications for inventions in Belgium?

no

The novelty grace period is 6 months before the filing date/priority date.

IPObel conducts only formality examination of invention patent applications. The applicant needs to submit a search request within 13 months from the date of the latest application. The search report will be issued by the EPO with a written opinion on patentability, but it is not binding. The patent application is completed within 18 months from the earliest priority date Authorization can be obtained after publication.

• Licensing Fee: None.
• Annuity: The renewal fee is paid every 5 years. If the annual fee is overdue, the payment can be postponed within 6 months after the due date at the latest, but an additional penalty of 12.00 euros is required.

3 months

Belgian Federal Government Intellectual Property Office

English: The Belgian Intellectual Property Office, Abbreviation: IPObel

Website: Intellectual property | FPS Economy (fgov.be)

Belgian invention patent search: Search in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) | CBE Public Search (fgov.be)

1-2 years

BOIP only conducts a formality examination of the design application, including whether the design violates public order and good customs. Once the formality examination is completed, the patent application will be authorized and published.

• via Paris Convention : 12 months from earliest priority date.
• Validation of European Patent in EPO member states: 3 months from the date of European patent grant.

yes