PATENT FILING IN SINGAPORE

Singapore joined WIPO in 1990 and introduced a new Patent Act in 1994. Singapore follows a self-examination system where patent grants are based on search and examination reports from designated foreign patent offices or the International Search and Preliminary Examination Authorities under the PCT. With a strong push toward e-filing, Singapore has seen a significant rise in patent applications globally.

The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) defines different timeframes for filing a Request for Examination depending on the Search Report relied upon. To support growing innovation activity, GPF provides a complete, efficient, and accurate filing solution including translation services wherever needed.

GPF, along with Khurana and Khurana, Advocates and IP Attorneys (K&K), offers extensive expertise in Patent Filing and Prosecution under Singapore Patent Law, ensuring smooth and timely prosecution throughout the patent lifecycle.

High Level Cost Estimate for Filing
Description
Price
Official Fee
$ 245
Attorney Fee
$ 900
Translation Fee
USD 10 per 100 words
Total
$ 1,145
Translation Fee: USD 10 per 100 words
Documents Required
  • Power of Attorney
  • Declaration to be submitted by the Applicant / Inventor
  • PCT application details / Priority application details
  • Fee correspondence document
  • Translation (if the application is filed in a language other than English or Chinese)
Filing to Grant Procedure
1
STEP 1 : FILING

  • The filing must be done within 30 months from the declared priority date, or from the date of filing of the PCT international application if no priority is declared.

2
STEP 2 : PUBLICATION

  • Publication of Singaporean patents is done within 18 months of the priority date.

3
STEP 3 : EXAMINATION

Request for examination has to be made within the below-mentioned timelines:

  • To file a request for a search (13 months, extendable by 18 months) and examination (36 months, extendable by 18 months).

  • To file a combined request for search and examination (36 months, extendable by 18 months).

  • To file a request for examination (36 months, extendable by 18 months) based on a foreign search report.

  • To rely on foreign patent results or a search and examination report of the corresponding application (36 months, extendable by 18 months). A supplementary examination may also be requested.

4
STEP 4 : PROSECUTION

  • At the time of examination, the Patent Office issues the Examination Report (FER) / Office Action containing objections or requirements, and the response must be filed within 5 months from the date of issuance.

5
STEP 5 : GRANT

  • Annuity for the 4th year onwards is to be paid after grant of the patent. Protection of the patent is for 20 years from the International Filing Date.