PCT Timeline: What Happens & When?

Got a great invention? Thinking about patenting it internationally? The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) helps you secure patent protection in multiple countries with one application. But timing is everything. Here’s a simple timeline to keep you on track.

📍 Day 0 – You File a Patent Application (Priority Date)

• This can be a provisional or full patent application in your home country (e.g., through IP Australia or USPTO).

• This date becomes your priority date, which means any international filings within 12 months can claim this as their starting point.

  
  

📍 Within 12 Months – File a PCT Application

• Before the 12-month mark, you must file your PCT application to maintain your priority date.

• This is done through your local patent office or WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization).

• You don’t need to select specific countries yet—just keep your options open.

  
  

📍 3-6 Months After PCT Filing – International Search Report (ISR)

• WIPO conducts a patent search to check if your invention is novel.

• You receive a Written Opinion on whether your invention is likely patentable.

• This gives you an early sense of whether you should proceed or tweak your application.

  
  

📍 18 Months After Priority Date – Your PCT Application Gets Published

• Your application becomes publicly available through WIPO’s database.

• Investors, competitors, and potential partners can now see it.

  
  

📍 22 Months – Optional Supplementary Search (If Needed)

• If you're still unsure about patentability, you can request another search from a different patent office.

  
  

📍 Up to 30/31 Months* – National Phase Entry (Deadline!)

• This is the big decision point. By this time, you must choose the specific countries where you want patent protection.

• You file separate national phase applications in each country (e.g., US, Europe, China, Australia, etc.).

• This is where costs start adding up, as each country has different fees and rules.

  
  

📍 National Phase – Examination & Grant (Timelines Vary)

• Each country examines your patent under its own laws.

• If approved, you receive a national patent for that country.

• Some countries are fast (1-2 years), others take 5+ years.

  
  

Key Takeaways

🚀 PCT buys you time – You get up to 30/31 months to decide where to file.

💰 Costs are staggered – Initial filing is cheaper, but national phase fees can be significant.🕵️‍♂️ Get strategic – Use the international search report to assess your invention’s strength before spending big.

⚠️ Deadlines matter – If you miss the 30/31-month national phase deadline, you lose rights in that country.

Final Thoughts

Patents are a long game, but the PCT helps you delay costs and make informed decisions before committing. If you’re eyeing global markets, this route keeps your options open.

Need help with your patent strategy? Let’s chat and make sure you stay on track.

PCT Timeline

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