What is a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application?

A Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application is an international filing system that allows inventors to secure patent protection in multiple countries. Through the PCT, an inventor can make one filing that covers all applicable nations, rather than having to submit several applications to separate patent offices in different countries. In Nevada, inventors who wish to use the PCT must first apply for a patent in the United States before they can submit an international PCT application. After filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the inventor will receive an International Filing Date, which is when their rights for patent protection begin. This is important because it starts the 12-month period before inventors must file in other countries. The original USPTO filing will also serve as a basis for the PCT application. The PCT application provides an inventor with a few key benefits. These include an automatic 18-month deadline for filing in other countries, as well as the ability to conduct a global patent search and receive an international opinion on the potential of their invention. It also enables an inventor to defer the filing costs in other countries for up to 30 months. Ultimately, the PCT application is an important tool for inventors in Nevada to protect their inventions across international borders. It helps simplify the complex process of filing for patent protection and saves inventors time and money.

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What is a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application?

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