In today’s globalized innovation landscape, protecting your invention beyond borders is critical. The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) enables inventors and organizations to file a single international patent application, which can later enter national phases in 150+ countries. If you're looking to streamline your PCT patent filing online, this blog provides a complete guide, tailored for Indian and international applicants.

At Global Patent Filing, we simplify and fast-track the complex PCT process with our expert support and online infrastructure.

What is PCT Patent Filing?

The PCT, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), allows applicants to seek patent protection for an invention simultaneously in multiple countries through a single application. It's not a patent grant by itself, but a gateway to national-level filings.

Key benefits of PCT patent filing include:

• Centralized filing and formalities
• Delayed costs for national phase entry
• International search and preliminary examination reports
• Additional time (up to 30/31 months) to decide on specific countries

Steps for PCT Patent Filing Online

Filing your PCT application online involves several crucial steps:

1. Determine Eligibility and Timeline

Before proceeding, ensure your application is filed within 12 months of your priority application (usually a domestic patent filing).

2. Choose the Receiving Office

Indian applicants can file via the Indian Patent Office or directly with WIPO through ePCT.

3. Prepare Application Documents

The international patent application typically includes:

• Request Form (PCT/RO/101)
• Specification with claims, drawings, and abstract 
• Sequence listings (if applicable)

4. File Electronically

Submit your PCT application through:

• ePCT Portal (WIPO)
• Indian Patent Office’s online filing system

At Global Patent Filing, our team ensures that your documents meet all international filing requirements.

5. Receive International Search Report (ISR)

The International Searching Authority (ISA) will examine prior art and issue a search report with a written opinion on patentability.

6. Publication by WIPO

WIPO publishes the application after 18 months from the priority date.

7. Optional: International Preliminary Examination

Applicants may request an additional review under Chapter II of the PCT process to improve chances of success in national phases.

8. Enter National Phase

Typically within 30 months (31 for some jurisdictions), you must enter the national phase in each desired country.

Why File Your PCT Patent Online?

Filing your PCT patent application online brings several advantages:

• Faster processing and submission
• Access to real-time status and tracking via ePCT
• Simplified document management
• Environment-friendly and paperless workflow
• Cost of PCT Patent Filing

The cost of a PCT filing includes:

• Filing fee (varies by receiving office)
• International search fee
• Transmittal fee
• Optional preliminary examination fee

At Global Patent Filing, we offer transparent and cost-effective pricing with packages tailored to startups, SMEs, and corporates.

• PCT Filing Services We Offer
• We provide end-to-end PCT patent filing services, including:
• Drafting and reviewing PCT applications
• Filing through ePCT or national portals
• Handling international search and examination processes
• Entering national phases globally

FAQs on PCT Patent Filing

Q1. Can I file a PCT application without a national patent?

Yes, you can file a PCT application directly, but it's generally advisable to file a priority application first.

Q2. How long is a PCT application valid?

You must enter national phases within 30/31 months from the earliest priority date. The PCT application itself doesn’t grant protection.

Q3. Is India a part of the PCT system?

Yes, India is a member of the PCT and allows both filing and receiving of international applications.

➡️ Know more about international patent filing

Filing your PCT patent online is a smart and efficient way to safeguard your innovation globally. Whether you're a startup or a research institute, navigating the international patent process can be challenging — but with expert partners like Global Patent Filing, you’re in safe hands.

Secure your innovation beyond borders — file your PCT application online today!