Updated June 17, 2026
A PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) international application has the effect of filing in all PCT member states with a single application, reducing the procedures, cost and effort of separate national filings. The JPO acts as receiving Office, International Searching Authority and International Preliminary Examining Authority.
From International to National Phase
1
International filingWithin 12 months of priority
One application with the effect of filing in all members
2
International search (ISR)~16 months from priority
The ISA conducts a prior-art search and written opinion
3
International publication18 months from priority
The application is published internationally
4
Preliminary exam (optional)
A preliminary opinion on patentability (on request)
5
National-phase entryWithin 30 months of priority
Submit translations and enter each desired country
※ No rights are granted in the international phase. Actual grant occurs in each country’s “national phase” under its own procedure and language. National-phase entry in Japan is within 30 months of the priority date.
Key Systems to Know
Role of the JPO
The JPO handles applications as receiving Office, ISA and IPEA.
30-month national phase
Securing entry deadlines buys time to assess marketability and business value.
PCT-PPH link
Use international search/preliminary results to request accelerated exam (PPH) in each country.
Electronic filing (ePCT)
Electronic filing and management via WIPO’s ePCT, etc.
Main fees
Transmittal, search and international filing fees apply; reductions are available.
Recent Developments
2025–26
International filing fees revised
PCT international filing fees were revised over 2025–2026. Please check JPO notices for the latest fees.
[Sources] 経済産業省 特許庁 · PCT(特許協力条約)