A patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention. In other words, patent protection means that the invention cannot be commercially made, used, distributed, imported, or sold by others without the patent owner’s consent.
How Much Does It Cost To Patent An Idea In South Africa
The “rule of thumb” is that to file a patent (“national phase patent“) in most countries costs between R25,000 and R45,000. However, to file a South African national phase patent costs only R11,950 (excl. vat).
How do I patent an idea in South Africa?
File a provisional application – This may be undertaken by the applicant with or without the assistance of an attorney.
File a complete application – This must be signed by a patent attorney.
File a PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) application (if applicable).
How long does it take for a patent to be approved in South Africa?
South Africa has a non-examining patent system, which means that once the formal requirements are complied with, a South African patent application will generally be accepted within nine to twelve months from the filing date of the application.
How long does it take to get a patent in South Africa?
Registration and grant of a patent in South Africa usually takes place in under 2 years calculated from the filing date of the complete application.
How long does a patent last in South Africa?
20 years
A patent can last up to 20 years, provided that it is renewed annually before the expiration of the third year from the date of filing in South Africa. It is important to pay an annual renewal fee to keep it in force. The patent expires after 20 years from the date of application.
Does South Africa examine patents?
South Africa is a non-examining country there is no Patent Examination in South Africa. It is important to note that a provisional patent application will not provide you with an enforceable right – it is merely a device which allows you to test the market without destroying the novelty of you invention.
What are the three types of patents?
There are three types of patents – Utility, Design, and Plant. Utility patents may be granted to anyone who invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, or compositions of matters, or any new useful improvement thereof.