–  Global Reach: PCT allows you to seek patent protection in a vast list of member countries. It’s your ticket to going global with your innovation. As of December 2022, PCT membership consisted of 157 contracting states.

– Priority Claim: With the PCT, you can leverage the concept of “priority.” File a single international application, and you can use that filing date as a starting point for applications in numerous countries, streamlining the process.

–  Timeframe: The PCT extends the window for international patent protection. You have 30 months from your priority date to make informed decisions on where to file your patents in the extensive list of member countries.

–  Continuity: A PCT application is examined but does not itself result in the grant of a patent, since there is no such thing as an “international patent”. This means that a PCT application, which establishes a filing date in all contracting states, must be followed up with the filing of patent applications into national or regional phases to proceed toward the grant of one or more patents. 

–  Examination: PCT offers a search and examination process, providing valuable insights before entering the national or regional phase. It’s a strategic advantage for innovators looking to secure their patents across diverse member countries.

By mastering the rules and topics of the PCT, you can navigate the complexities of international patent protection effectively