Features of Japanese Utility Model Patent Application Process

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

3-6 months

yes

yes

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

yes. Multiple designs may be included in one design application.

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

1-2 years

• Grant fee: The applicant needs to pay the granted fee within 30 days after receiving the granted notice, which is the annual fee for the first to third years.
• Annuity: From the 4th year from the date of granted, the annual fee will be paid year by year, and the payment can be postponed within 6 months after the overdue period, but at the same time, 200% of the annual fee of the current year must be paid as a penalty. The amount of the annual fee depends on the number of Claim, and the annual fee can be paid for several years in one lump sum.

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