Japanese Patent FAQs
Priority Requirements
Q. In what combinations and timing can utility, design and utility models claim benefit of each other?
A.
Patent and utility model applications cannot claim priority based on design application, and vice versa. A patent application can claim priority based on a utility application within 12 months, and vice versa.
Q.What types of country applications can claim priority based on a PCT, and on which type of country filing can a PCT base a priority claim?
A.
Patent and utility model applications can claim priority base on a PCT application. A design application cannot claim priority based on a PCT application.
A PCT application can claim priority based on a patent application and a utility model application, and vice versa.