Comprehensive International Patent Search<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nWhen one files a patent application with WIPO under PCT, the organization conducts a global patent search that enables applicants to find out whether the invention can be patented across the world. This knowledge can significantly affect the very decision of patenting the invention itself.
For instance, if a patent is found to be unpatentable after disclosure in a PCT application, it can prompt a decision to withdraw the application, preventing the cost of national phase filing. Hence, it is also an efficient method of managing risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Time-effective Application Process<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Filing separate patent applications in all the PCT Contracting States would require amending the application according to the rules and regulations of each member country. The process will not only be daunting but also time-consuming. The treaty accelerates all your patent applications globally. Some of the PCT Contracting States also have PCT-Patent Prosecution Highway Agreements that enable even faster processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Strong Grounds for Patenting Decision<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Once an applicant files a patent application under PCT, WIPO sends a global patent search report and an opinion on the patentability of the product \u2013 both make obtaining grant of a patent in selected countries considerably easier. The information also plays a critical role in assessing the prospects of acquiring a patent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Opportunity to amend applications<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Applicants get an opportunity to amend a PCT application before entering national phase countries. Amendments can be made on a voluntary basis or in order to address the search and examination report which is issued by PCT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Disadvantages of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the other side of the coin, PCT has certain disadvantages too. However, its benefits surpass the negligible limitations. Some of the drawbacks of the treaty are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Limited Patent Coverage<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
You can obtain only utility patents through patent applications under the PCT. You can\u2019t patent a design through this process. The process also creates examination delays and it takes more time to acquire patent via PCT route. But PCT gives you additional 18\/19 months to select the countries of interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Costlier Patent Process<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The PCT also makes the patent process a bit costlier as it requires an applicant to prosecute the application separately in each country. It also costs attorney fees in international phase. However, the process can provide favorable and cost-effective solutions such as streamlined prosecutions. However, PCT fee reductions are available when the PCT application is filed electronically or the applicants belonging to developing countries get 90% reduction in the official filing fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n