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 & Khurana, Advocates and IP Attorneys (K&K), offers extensive expertise in patent filing/prosecution under Singapore Patent Law, ensuring smooth and timely prosecution throughout the patent lifecycle.

High Level Cost Estimate for Filing
Description
Price
Official Fee
$ 345
Attorney Fee
$ 800
Translation Fee
NA
Total
$ 1,145

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.