Protect your Invention Now
Aside from applying for a patent in your own country, you should also consider seeking patent protection internationally. By doing so, you will be able to expand the potential market of your invention without subjecting it to copying. With an international patent, your product or invention will be protected from being copied, sold or used.
What is an International Patent Application?
An international patent application or PCT is filed based upon the Patent Cooperation Treaty. It will allow you to reserve the right to file a utility patent in more than one hundred countries all over the world. The patent will last for more than 2 years from your initial filing.
However, it is important to note that PCT should be filed within a year of your initial patent application. If you reside in the United States and have applied for a patent there, your international patent application must be filed before your application in the United States is published.
Once you have an international patent application, you will discover that your product will have an increased market value, especially if you are in engaged in the import and export business. This is a must if you intend to manufacture and sell your product overseas.
Benefits of a PCT Application
If you have not decided yet which countries you will need protection for your product or invention, the best thing to do is get a PCT application. It is the perfect way to avoid multiple foreign applications and you will have up to 30 months to market your invention actively.
Immediate protection
Nobody likes having their ideas stolen or their inventions being claimed by others. If you happen to want protection in other countries which do not belong to the PCT, you also need to file the actual application in the specific countries.
Licensing your invention
The value of your patent rights can be increased if you have an international application. This is indeed a very good idea if your goal is to give other companies the right to sell, use or make your invention. The application will give you a legal basis wherein you will be able to receive payments from companies who wish to sell, make or use your invention in other countries.
Being the exclusive source
If you want to maintain being the exclusive source of an invention, the PCT application will extend the scope of your protection to beyond your country. Getting an international patent application is the most inexpensive way to keep your right to file other patent applications around the world. It will allow you the chance to seek protection in any or all participating member countries.