Updated June 17, 2026
The utility model system protects and encourages “devices” relating to the shape, structure or combination of articles, contributing to technological and industrial development. To grant rights quickly, Japan uses a non-examination registration system without substantive examination.
Registration Requirements
01
Subject — device
Technical ideas on the shape, structure or combination of articles (methods/substances excluded).
02
Novelty
A new device not disclosed before filing.
03
Inventive step
Not extremely easy to devise (the “high-level” requirement for patents does not apply).
From Filing to Enforcement
1
Filing
Request, specification, claims, drawings (required), abstract
2
Basic/formality checkNo examination
Only formalities and basic requirements; no substantive exam
3
RegistrationUsually a few months
Registered after paying fees (fast)
4
Technical OpinionRequired to enforce
Request a Utility Model Technical Opinion from the JPO
5
Enforcement
Warn/enforce by presenting the Technical Opinion
※ Because rights are registered without examination, validity is judged separately. To enforce, you must present a “Utility Model Technical Opinion”; warning/enforcing without one and causing damage may incur liability.
Key Systems to Know
Non-examination registration
Obtain rights quickly without substantive exam — useful when speed matters more than stability.
Utility Model Technical Opinion
The JPO’s objective assessment of validity; a prerequisite for enforcement.
Conversion with patents
Mutual conversion between patent and utility model applications is possible.
Term of right
10 years from filing; maintained by paying annual fees after registration.
PCT international application
A utility model can also gain multi-country effect via the PCT.
Recent Developments
2026
Digitalized certificates
Utility model certificates and annuity receipts have been unified as PDF data since April 2026.
2025–26
Fee revisions
Industrial property fees were revised; please check JPO notices for the latest fees.
[Sources] 経済産業省 特許庁