How long does it take from filing an application to obtaining a patent?

Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 years for a standard patent application to be granted. By utilizing the expedited examination system (standard application or super-expedited examination), it is possible to obtain a grant in 3 to 6 months. Small and medium-sized enterprises, universities, and green-related inventions are eligible for expedited examination.

Can an individual file a patent application?

Yes, we also handle many cases from individual inventors. Sole proprietors and small businesses are eligible for a program that reduces application and examination request fees by half. Our firm provides attentive support to individual inventors as well.

Do you have a pricing plan for small and medium-sized businesses and startups?

Yes, with a retainer agreement starting at 30,000 yen per month, member rates apply, and application filing fees are discounted by 10–30% compared to one-time requests. A retainer agreement is overwhelmingly advantageous for businesses planning to file applications on an ongoing basis.

Patent Application Services | Protecting Your Inventions with Strong Rights

Q: Is a patentability search (preliminary search) necessary?

We recommend conducting a patentability search to verify the existence of similar patents before filing an application. This search helps you avoid unnecessary filings and allows you to develop a strategy for drafting claims that will secure strong intellectual property rights. The cost is approximately 100,000 to 200,000 yen.

Q: Can inventions related to AI and software be patented?

Yes, inventions related to AI, software, and business models are also eligible for patents. Our firm has extensive experience filing patent applications in the IT field and assists clients in securing patent rights for cutting-edge technological inventions such as AI/ML, blockchain, IoT, and SaaS architecture.

Q: How long is the term of a patent?

The term of a patent is 20 years from the filing date. You can maintain your rights by paying the annual patent maintenance fees. Our firm also offers patent maintenance fee management services to help you avoid missing payment deadlines.

Patent attorneys with a deep understanding of technology help you secure the patent rights that protect your business. Our
technology-focused patent attorneys provide comprehensive support from research and development through to commercialization.

What Is a Patent? — A 20-Year Right to Exclusively Exploit an Invention

A patent is the right to exclusively practice a new invention (a technical idea). It is a powerful right that allows you to prevent unauthorized use by third parties for up to 20 years from the filing date, and it is one of the most important forms of intellectual property for establishing a competitive advantage for your business.

Benefits of a Patent

✔ Legally prevent competitors from copying your invention

✔ Generate licensing revenue (royalties)

✔ Can be used to demonstrate technical capabilities to investors and business partners

✔ Provides an advantage in the review process for subsidies and grants

✔ Enhances corporate value during M&A or business sales

Features of EVORIX’s Patent Application Service

🎯 1. Technical Understanding — Accurately Capturing the Essence of the Invention

EVORIX’s patent attorneys have backgrounds in a wide range of technical fields, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software, chemistry, and biotechnology. Through dialogue with inventors, we delve deeply beyond superficial configurations to understand “why it is superior” and “where the essential inventive step lies,” enabling us to draft strong claims.

🔍 2. Thorough Prior Art Search

We assess the likelihood of patent grant through a pre-filing prior art search. Our patent attorneys, who are well-versed in the examination trends of the Patent Office, accurately identify the points of differentiation from similar technologies, thereby avoiding unnecessary filings and increasing the likelihood of obtaining patent protection.

📝 3. High-Quality Specification Drafting

A specification is not merely a technical document; it is a “contract” for asserting rights over a 20-year period. At EVORIX, we are committed to drafting specifications that secure a broad and strong scope of rights, with an eye toward future business expansion and potential litigation.

🛡 4. Handling of Post-Filing Procedures

We provide comprehensive support throughout the entire process—from drafting responses and amendments to notices of rejection to preparing for oral examinations—until registration is granted. Even with challenging cases, we never give up and secure patent rights through logical rebuttals.

🌍 5. International Applications (PCT)

We provide one-stop service for filing applications in countries around the world, including the U.S., Europe, China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia. Leveraging our network of local agents, we support the development of global intellectual property portfolios.

Technical Fields We Handle

Our firm handles patent applications across a wide range of technical fields. In recent years, in particular, we have extensive experience with applications in the IT sector (software, AI, SaaS, and mobile apps).

💻 Software, IT, and AI

Business model patents, machine learning algorithms, UI/UX, SaaS architecture, blockchain, IoT systems, and more. → Visit our dedicated IT patents page

⚙️ Machinery, Equipment, and Control

Industrial machinery, robots, automotive parts, medical devices, home appliances, production equipment, control systems, etc.

⚡ Electrical, Electronics, and Communications

Semiconductors, circuit design, wireless communications, sensors, power supply systems, measuring instruments, etc.

🧪 Chemistry, Materials, and Biotechnology

Organic and inorganic chemistry, polymer materials, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, biotechnology, etc.

Patent Application Process

Free Consultation and Initial Discussion

We will discuss the details of your invention, business background, and budget.

Prior Art Search

We will assess the likelihood of registration in advance and develop a strategy.

Drafting and Review of the Specification

We prepare application documents that reflect the technical content and submit them to you for review.

Filing with the Patent Office

We will file the application the same day via the electronic filing system.

Intermediate Processing (if necessary)

We prepare a response to the grounds for rejection and amendments.

Patent Registration and Annuity Management

We provide support through the management of annuity payments after registration.

Related Services

Combined with patent applications, these services help you build a stronger intellectual property portfolio.

Design Registration Services — Protect Your Product Designs
Trademark Registration Services — Protecting Your Brand
Specialized IT Patent Page — Software and AI Patents
IT IP Hub — Comprehensive Guide for IT Companies

Please feel free to contact us for a free consultation

“I want to know if I can get a patent for this invention,” “I want to check if it infringes on another company’s patent,” “I’ve received a notice of rejection”—we welcome any questions, no matter how small.

The initial consultation is free. Our patent attorneys, who understand the technology, will propose the optimal patent strategy tailored to your company’s situation. Please contact us by phone (+81-6-7777-1884) or via the inquiry form.

We’re here to help you take the first step in protecting your company’s innovations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q : How much does a patent application cost?

Application costs, which include the Japan Patent Office fee (14,000 yen) and our firm’s patent attorney fees, typically start at 300,000 yen for simple cases and 600,000 yen for technically complex cases. We will provide a free estimate after reviewing the technical details of your case.There are also programs available for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups that reduce application and examination request fees to between one-half and one-third of the standard amount.

Q : How long does it take from filing the application to obtaining a patent?

For a standard patent application, registration typically takes 2 to 3 years. If you utilize the expedited examination system (standard application or super-expedited examination), registration is possible within 3 to 6 months. Small and medium-sized enterprises, universities, and green-related inventions are eligible for expedited examination.

Q : Can individuals file patent applications?

Yes, we receive many requests from individual inventors. Sole proprietors and small business owners can take advantage of a program that reduces application and examination request fees by half. Our firm provides attentive support to individual inventors as well.

Q Is a patentability search (preliminary search) necessary?

We recommend conducting a patentability search to verify the existence of similar patents before filing. This search helps avoid unnecessary applications and allows us to develop a strategy for drafting claims that will secure strong intellectual property rights. The cost is approximately 100,000 to 200,000 yen.

Q Can inventions related to AI and software be patented?

Yes, inventions related to AI, software, and business models are eligible for patent protection. Our firm has extensive experience with applications in the IT field and assists in securing patent rights for cutting-edge technological inventions such as AI/ML, blockchain, IoT, and SaaS architecture.

Q Do you handle applications in other countries (such as the U.S., Europe, China, and South Korea)?

Yes, we handle both PCT international patent applications and the Paris Convention route (direct filing). We provide comprehensive support for obtaining patents in major countries such as the U.S., Europe (EPO), China, South Korea, Southeast Asia, India, and Brazil. We can also assist with applications for the INPIT Foreign Application Subsidy (covering up to half the costs).

Q : How do you handle a notice of grounds for rejection?

We provide comprehensive support, from drafting responses and amendments to a notice of rejection to preparing for oral examinations. Our firm has a proven track record of increasing grant rates through logical rebuttals, and we never give up, even on difficult cases.

Q : How long is the term of a patent?

A patent is valid for 20 years from the filing date. You can maintain your rights by paying annual maintenance fees. Our firm also offers maintenance fee management services to prevent missed payment deadlines.

Q : Do you have a fee structure for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups?

Yes, our retainer agreements starting at 30,000 yen per month offer member rates, providing a 10–30% discount on application fees compared to one-time requests. Retainer agreements are overwhelmingly advantageous for businesses planning to file applications on an ongoing basis.

Q : Do you offer free consultations?

Yes, the initial consultation is free. Please feel free to contact us by phone (+81-6-7777-1884), email, or through our contact form. After hearing an overview of your invention, we will provide a free assessment of its patentability, a filing strategy, and a cost estimate.