For entrepreneurs, inventors, and startups operating in a global market, the stage of International patent registration is an important strategic move. One of the main ways to do this is through the mechanism ofPCT – Acronyms of Patent Cooperation TreatyThis is an international agreement that allows you to postpone the choice of which countries to file the patent in, while maintaining the original date the application was filed.
In this article, we will understand what a PCT application is, how it works, what its advantages and disadvantages are, and who it is suitable for.
What is a PCT application?
A PCT application is a single international patent application filed under a cooperation treaty between more than 150 countries. It Does not grant an international patent, but rather constitutes a preliminary step that facilitates the process of filing numerous patent applications in multiple countries.
For example: Instead of filing separate applications for the US, Europe, China, India and Israel within 12 months, you can file a single PCT application, which will allow you to wait Up to 30 or 31 months From the initial date to decide in which countries to continue the process.
In practice, this is an important tool that gives inventors time, flexibility, and significant planning advantages in the process of Protection of an invention In the international arena.
How does the process work?
The process usually begins with the filing of a national patent application – for example in Israel or the US. After that, within 12 months, a PCT application which is based on the same previous request.
The steps of the process include:
- Filing a PCT application To the competent authority (for example, the Israel Patent Authority or through WIPO).
- International search (International Search Report) – in which an examination of existing similar inventions is carried out.
- Receiving Initial opinion report (Written Opinion) regarding the patent's eligibility.
- (Optional) – Submitting a request for preliminary examination (Chapter II) to receive a more detailed report.
- After up to 30/31 months – moving on to the National Phase – in which separate applications are submitted in each country where you wish to protect the invention.
Advantages of a PCT application
🕒 1. Postponing expensive decisions
The main advantage is Extension of time: Instead of deciding within 12 months in which countries to file, the PCT allows you to wait up to 30 or 31 months. This gives you time to recruit investors, test markets, and consult strategically.
🌎 2. Extensive global coverage
The application is considered valid in more than 150 countries that have signed the treaty, including the USA, the European Union, Japan, China, Canada, Brazil, and more. For international projects, this is a significant advantage.
🧾 3. International Search Report
A comprehensive PCT application Early search report Which shows previous patents related to the invention. This helps to understand the patent environment and examine the chances of success in the future.
⚖️ 4. Uniformity and discounting in the early stages
Instead of submitting separate applications at once, all information and procedures can be centralized with one international body (WIPO), in a more cost-effective and structured manner – at least until the stage of entering countries.
Disadvantages to be aware of
💰 1. Cumulative costs
Filing a PCT application requires the payment of significant fees – in addition to the national fees that will come later. Therefore, from a budgetary perspective, it is important to understand that this is a more expensive process in the long run.
📜 2. The patent is not yet registered
Filing a PCT application Does not grant a patentOnly after entering the countries and meeting local requirements will a decision be made whether to grant a patent in each country.
🧩 3. Not suitable for every invention
For ideas that are limited to a local market or do not have global commercial potential, it may be better to file in only one country, rather than enter the long and expensive PCT process.
🔁 4. No extension beyond 31 months
After this deadline, it is mandatory to select countries and continue the process. Therefore, it is worth using the time wisely, testing markets, and building a solid business plan.
Who is this suitable for?
- Entrepreneurs targeting the international market
- Startups seeking to postpone significant expenses
- Inventors looking for time to test business and technological feasibility
- Initiatives that are in negotiations with investors or strategic partners
- Companies that want to maintain the possibility of registering in many countries – without making an immediate commitment
Summary
Request PCT It is one of the key tools in the toolbox of international inventors and entrepreneurs. It provides Flexibility, time and cost deferral – but also requires proper planning and an understanding of its limitations. This is not a “global” patent, but In the interim Which allows for the formulation of a smart and scalable patent strategy.
Before choosing a PCT route, it is important to ask: Does my invention really need international protection? Do I have a commercial plan that can justify this investment?
