Overview of Patent Types: Invention vs. Utility Solution
In Vietnam, two main types of patents can be pursued: invention
patents and utility solution patents. An invention patent is
granted for a novel and inventive technical solution in any field,
which can be a product or a process that solves a specific problem
using natural laws. It offers protection for 20 years from the
filing date. On the other hand, a utility solution patent, also
known as a utility model, is similar to an invention patent but
generally involves less stringent novelty and inventive step
requirements. It provides protection for 10 years from the filing
date.
Application Requirements
Before filing, it is advisable to conduct a novelty search to
ensure the invention is new and has not been disclosed in any prior
art. The essential documents for a patent application include:
