Summary

SINGAPORE PATENT

Definition:
A patentable invention can be a product or a process that gives a new technical solution to a problem. It can be a new method of doing things, the composition of a new product, or a technical improvement on how certain objects work

A patent should satisfy the following criteria to claim protection:

• new
• involves an inventive step and
• capable of industrial application
  

Membership:
Applicants of prior applications in Paris Convention and the World Trade Organisation can claim priority within 12 months of the first application.

Eligibility:
Any person or corporation claiming to be the owner of an invention can apply for a patent in Singapore. There are no restrictions or discrimination as to nationality or residency.

Rule of Priority:
"First to File" is the rule followed by Singapore  in determining priority of patents.

Procedure

SINGAPORE PATENT APPLICATION PROCEDURES

1.Searching
This is the first step before an application is made to file a patent. Although a prior search is optional it helps in determining the existence of filed patents.

2.Application
To obtain a patent in Singapore, one must submit a patent application with the Registry of Patents containing the following:
Description, claims, drawings, abstract and declaration of priority has to be made where priority is sought.

3. Examination
A formalities examination for form and presentation will be followed by a search for prior patents and examinations for statutory compliances.

4.Publication
The application will be published after 18 months after the date of filing of the application.

5.Registration
Upon the receipt of a search and examination report, the applicant would have to assess if it is worthwhile to proceed to obtain a grant of a patent and maintain the patent. If the applicant chooses to do so, he would then submit a request for grant. On grant, a certificate of grant would be issued, and this fact and date of grant will be published in the Patents Journal.

6.Protection
The term of a patent is 20 years from the date of filing subject to the payment of renewal fees.

7. Enforcement Remedies
The patent owner can take civil legal action against an infringing party, seeking relief in the form of an injunction to stop the infringing action, demand for the profits gained by the infringing party at his expense and/or, seek damages for the loss suffered.

Charges

Patent Application in SINGAPORE

Documents Required For Filing A Patent Application

Maintenance Fees Of Patent