1. Why You Should Protect Your Patent in Japan

Japan is the third-largest economy in the world, home to thousands of top-tier manufacturers, global technology firms, and innovative startups. For international applicants, securing patent rights in Japan offers critical access to a lucrative and technologically advanced market. In particular, Japanese corporations often place high value on strong patent portfolios, making your protection in Japan strategically valuable not only for enforcement, but also for licensing or partnership purposes.

The Japanese patent system is known for its procedural rigor and technical precision. While the process can seem complex, working with a cost-efficient and experienced local agent can simplify the Japan national phase process significantly.

2. Deadline for National Phase Entry

The basic deadline to enter the national phase in Japan is 30 months from the priority date of your PCT application. However, even if you miss this deadline, the Japan Patent Office (JPO) allows a grace period for restoration of rights under specific conditions.

This grace period is available for applicants who have a valid reason for the delay and can file a restoration request within up to 2 months from the date on which the applicant became able to request the procedure. Our firm can assist in preparing such restoration filings effectively and promptly.

3. Requirements for Filing

To enter the Japan national phase, you will need the following:

• Your PCT application number and bibliographic details
• Applicant name and address
• A Japanese translation of the international application (if not originally filed in Japanese)
• Power of Attorney (not required unless explicitly requested by the JPO)

4. Translation Requirements

The JPO requires that the entire PCT application—specification, claims, abstract, and drawings (if any)—be translated into Japanese. High-quality translation is critical, as errors or omissions can affect the scope of your patent rights.

Origami International Patent Firm provides professional patent translation services from English, Chinese, Korean, German, and many other languages into Japanese. Our fee is 30 JPY per English word. All translations are performed by professionals trained in technical terminology and Japanese patent practices to ensure both accuracy and consistency.

5. Our Fees (Cost-Effective and Transparent)

We are proud to offer one of the most competitive fee structures among Japanese patent firms. For standard PCT national phase entry, our firm charges:

• JPY 43,000 (fixed fee) – including amendment, basic documents, and the like
• Translation services: 30 JPY per English word

6. Optional Services

In addition to national phase entry, we offer the following services:

• Amendment support
• Accelerated Examination (JPO’s PPH and AEP programs)
• Office Action analysis and response preparation
• Patent term extension consultation for pharmaceutical and agricultural products

7. Why Work With Origami International Patent Firm?

Based in Japan, our firm specializes in providing foreign associates and global applicants with a smooth and affordable gateway to Japanese patent protection. We are:

• Highly responsive — emails usually answered within 24 hours
• Cost-transparent — fixed pricing with no surprises
• Experienced — we’ve handled hundreds of PCT national entries

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I still enter the Japan national phase after 30 months?

Yes. Under certain conditions, you may still enter within 2 months from the date you become able to proceed with the national phase entry. A restoration request with a valid reason must be submitted.

Q2. Do I need a Power of Attorney to file in Japan?

Not usually. The Japan Patent Office (JPO) does not require a Power of Attorney unless specifically requested.

Q3. How long does it take to receive a first Office Action?

Typically, you may receive a first Office Action around 9–12 months after filing the examination request in Japan. You may request accelerated examination if quicker prosecution is needed.

Q4. What is the cost of translating a typical PCT application?

We charge 30 JPY per English word. For a typical application (5,000–8,000 words), the translation cost would range from JPY 150,000 to JPY 240,000.

Q5. Do you support filings from any country?

Yes. We support clients from the US, Europe, China, Korea, India, Southeast Asia, and many other jurisdictions.