Key Steps Of Utility Model Procedure In Japan

1. The PCT application filed in its original language is the basis of the examination. Mistranslations may be corrected after the grant of a utility model under the conditions that no new matter is introduced by the correction in view of the initial Japanese translation and that the scope of the utility model right is not broadened or shifted by the correction.

1' Paris route applications must be filed in Japanese. There is no option to file in English and submit a Japanese translation, unlike a Paris route patent application. A drawing is necessary for a Utility Model application. If a Utility Model application has no drawing, a request to submit a drawing is issued by the JPO and if no drawing is submitted in response, the application is dismissed. Registration fees for the first three years must be paid at the time of filing in addition to the filing fee.