事務所の特徴 > Patent > File a PCT National Phase in Japan in 3 Easy Steps

File a PCT National Phase in Japan in 3 Easy Steps

File a PCT National Phase in Japan in 3 Easy Steps

Looking to enter the Japanese national phase from your PCT application without unnecessary complexity or cost? This guide breaks the process into just 3 simple steps—no legal background required. With our professional support, you can complete the filing quickly and affordably, without missing any deadlines.

Why Choose Japan?

Japan is a high-value patent jurisdiction known for advanced industries, strict examination standards, and strong IP enforcement. Securing protection in Japan enhances your global IP portfolio—especially if you're active in fields like electronics, biotech, AI, or machinery.

Step 1: Check If You’re Still Within the Deadline

Confirm whether your PCT application is still eligible for national phase entry in Japan.

  • Standard Deadline: You must enter the national phase within 30 months from the priority date.
  • Late Filing: Restoration is possible only under specific conditions. You must act within 2 months from when the reason for delay is resolved. Supporting documents are required.
Let Origami check your eligibility for free. We'll assess your filing window and explain your options.

Step 2: Translate and Prepare the Required Documents

You'll need the following items to proceed:

  • Your PCT application number and international filing date
  • Applicant’s full legal name and address
  • A full Japanese translation of your PCT application, including:
    • Specification
    • Claims
    • Abstract
    • Drawings (if any)
Don't worry about the translation—Origami handles this too. Our patent professionals translate technical and legal content accurately for just JPY 30 per English word.

Step 3: Let Us File Your Application with the JPO

Once the documents are ready, Origami will:

  • File your application with the Japan Patent Office (JPO)
  • Submit optional claim amendments for better alignment with Japanese practice
  • Track deadlines and communicate with the JPO on your behalf
  • Assist with accelerated examination (PPH, AEP) if needed
We also notify you when it's time to request examination and handle responses to Office Actions later. Start to finish—we’ve got you covered.

Transparent Pricing. Real Value.

  • Filing Fee: JPY 43,000 (approx. USD 300), includes JPO filing and agent representation
  • Translation Fee: JPY 30 per English word (far below typical JPY 50–80)
  • Fast Response: Most inquiries are answered within 1 business day
  • Zero Surprises: No hidden costs. All pricing is confirmed before work starts.
  • Cost Advantage: Compared to other Japanese firms charging USD 600–1,200 for filing alone, Origami saves you up to 70%.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to file in Japan?

The deadline is 30 months from your earliest priority date. A short grace period may apply under strict restoration rules. Contact us to confirm.

Can I file without a Japanese address?

No. Japanese law requires foreign applicants to appoint a registered patent attorney. Origami will serve as your representative before the JPO.

Can I amend claims at the time of filing?

Yes. You can submit amendments under Article 19 or Article 34, or adjust claims to better meet Japanese standards.

When is the examination fee due?

Within 3 years of the international filing date. You don’t need to pay this at the time of national entry.

What happens after filing?

We’ll notify you when it’s time to request examination. If the JPO issues an Office Action, we help prepare and file your response. You're never on your own.

How do I get started?

Email us at info@origamipatentfirm.com with your PCT number and applicant details. We’ll confirm your timeline, provide a quote, and handle everything from translation to submission.

Contact Information

6-23-4, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo-to 150-0001, Japan
+81-50-6875-3628
info@origamipatentfirm.com
https://origamipatentfirm.com/en/origami-international-patent-firm-assist-pct-or-paris-extension-into-jp/
*We would appreciate it if you could set up the domain for @origamipatentfirm.com, regarding the above your email address. If not, our email might end up in the spam folder.

FYI: Competitive Fee Schedule

Compared to a typical Japanese patent firm, Origami International Patent Firm offers highly competitive and transparent pricing tailored to overseas applicants.

This means that applicants working with Origami can typically expect 50–70% total cost savings compared to conventional Japanese firms, without compromising on quality, responsiveness, or technical accuracy.

Item For Patent Application Typical Firm (Service Fee) Origami Firm (Service Fee)
PCT or Paris Extension into JP or
Regular Filing in JP 		100,000 JPY All-inclusive price 43,000 JPY
(about 300 USD)
Filing an amendment based on Art. 19 30,000 JPY
Filing an amendment based on Art. 34 30,000 JPY
Filing a voluntary amendment 30,000 JPY
Claiming priority to one or more prior applications 10,000- JPY
Filing a request for examination 20,000 JPY 15,000 JPY
(about 100 USD)
PPH (excluding a request for examination) 80,000 JPY 60,000 JPY
(about 400 USD)
Filing a priority certificate in the absense of DAS code (*1) 20,000 JPY 15,000 JPY
(about 100 USD)
Translation of each procedural document (*2) 40 JPY/EN Word 30 JPY/EN Word
Response to an Office action (*3) 200,000 or more JPY Workload A: 40,000 JPY (*4)
Workload B: 80,000 JPY (*4)
Workload C: 120,000 JPY (*4)
Workload D: 160,000 JPY (*4)
Workload E: 180,000- JPY (*4)
Filing a Divisional Application 80,000 JPY 60,000 JPY
(about 400 USD)
Reporting a notice of allowance and paying the registration fee (1st to 3rd year in lump sum as registration fee) 50,000 JPY 28,000 JPY
(about 180 USD)
Payment of annuity 30,000 JPY 15,000 JPY
(about 100 USD)

*1. Regarding "Filing a priority certificate in the absence of DAS code", the certificate and DAS code are issued by the Patent Office after a precedent application was filed. Furthermore, one of them is required only when you claim a priority based on the precedent application in Japan. In other words, they are not required if there is no precedent application.

*2. Regarding "Translation of each procedural document", we will charge a translation fee regarding specifications including a description, claims, abstract, and drawings which are needed to file with the JPO. Regarding an office action, we will charge the translation fee thereof if you request us to translate it from Japanese to English for studying it on your side. In other words, we do not charge when you prefer not to translate the office action.

*3. Response to an office action issued by the JPO, an amendment and argument are prepared for responding to it and for arguing that the concerned application should be registered. Please note that the office action is not necessarily issued, it is issued only when there is the reason for rejection regarding a registration of a Patent/Design/Trademark application, the reason being Novelty, Inventive Step, and the like. In other words, we do not charge when there is no office action or when you prefer not to respond to the issued office action.

*4. Regarding our service fee for responding to the office action, it is specified based on from "Workload A" to "Workload E". These workloads depend on degree of difficulty for overcoming the reason for rejection and/or the number of the reasons described therein.
The "Workload A" is, for example, a task of deleting a part of claims;
The "Workload B" is, for example, a task of preparing a comment for overcoming the office action;
The "Workload C" is, for example, a task of preparing and filing a response to the office action;
The "Workload D" is, for example, a task of preparing a comment for overcoming the office action and filing a response thereto; and
The "Workload E" is, for example, an additional or extra task in addition to the "Workload D".

Related posts

PCT to Japan Entry for Software Inventions

1. Introduction: Japan's Stance on Software Patents Japan offers a favorable environment for software-related patent filings, particularly when the claimed invention demonstrates a clear technical contribution. This article outlines how to enter the Japanese national phase from a PCT application when the subject matter is a software invention. 2. National Phase Entry Requirements Applicants must enter the Japanese national phase within 30 months from the priority date. Software inventions require careful translation and claim adaptation to Japanese requirements. A Japanese translation must be submitted at entry, but a 2-month grace period from the entry date is permitted under Article 184-4(2) of the Japanese Patent Act. 3. Claiming Software-Related Inventions in Japan To be patentable, software inventions must be considered a "creation of a technical idea utilizing a law of nature." This includes software controlling hardware or processes, such as: Control systems for industrial machinery Software for image processing tied to specific devices Embedded software in medical devices 4. Claim Drafting Tips When drafting claims for Japan: Use system or method claims tied to specific hardware Avoid overly abstract algorithm descriptions Provide flowcharts or source code examples in the specification 5. Responding to Office Actions The Japanese Patent Office (JPO) may issue Office Actions citing lack of inventive step or abstract subject matter. Response deadlines are: 3 months from the dispatch […]

Patent Filing in Japan for Foreign Applicants: A Complete Guide

Are you considering filing a patent application in Japan, either through direct filing or via the PCT national phase route? This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date insights into the procedures, costs, and requirements for foreign applicants who want to secure patent rights in Japan. Backed by the expertise of Origami International Patent Firm, we offer affordable, transparent, and streamlined support tailored for international clients. 1. Routes to Patent Protection in Japan Foreign applicants may file patents in Japan via the following routes: Direct filing: Filing directly with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). PCT National Phase Entry: Entering the Japanese national phase within 30 months of the priority date. This is one of the most common routes for foreign applicants. Paris Convention Route: Filing in Japan within 12 months from a priority application in a member country. This is suitable for applicants who have not used the PCT system but still wish to claim priority based on an earlier filing. Note: Under Article 8 of the Japanese Patent Act, non-residents ("overseas residents") must appoint a Japanese patent attorney or resident agent as their "Patent Administrator" to act on their behalf for any procedures or appeals before the JPO. This requirement ensures that all administrative and legal interactions with the JPO can be appropriately handled within Japan. The relevant law (Article 8) provides: […]

Monetize Your Patent Portfolio by Entering Japan

Introduction For global patent holders, the Japanese market presents a significant opportunity to monetize innovation. As the third-largest economy in the world with a strong manufacturing and tech sector, Japan values well-defined intellectual property. Entering the national phase in Japan through the PCT system can strategically unlock licensing, litigation leverage, and commercialization pathways. Why Japan Matters Japan has a robust and transparent patent system, making it an attractive jurisdiction for high-tech industries. Fields such as automotive, semiconductors, biotechnology, and robotics thrive here, backed by strong patent enforcement. Moreover, Japanese companies place a high value on IP-backed technologies when considering joint ventures, M&A, or licensing deals. National Phase Entry and Monetization The decision to enter Japan under the PCT is not merely procedural. It can serve as a gateway to revenue generation. Here’s how: Licensing Deals: Japanese firms often seek external innovation, especially in green energy and AI. A pending or granted patent in Japan can facilitate licensing negotiations. Patent Assertion: If competitors are manufacturing or selling infringing products in Japan, you can enforce your rights through the IP High Court, known for its balanced judgment and technical expertise. Asset for Investment: A strong patent portfolio in Japan increases corporate valuation and IP attractiveness during fundraising or exit strategies. How to Enter Japan’s National Phase Applicants must enter the national phase […]

Comments on this post

No comments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CAPTCHA


Trackbacks and Pingbacks on this post

No trackbacks.

TrackBack URL