How to Reduce PCT to Japan Entry Costs
Smart Strategies to Reduce Patent Costs in Japan
Entering the national phase of a PCT application in Japan can be a significant investment. However, many foreign applicants are unaware of cost-effective strategies to reduce their expenses without compromising the quality of their application. In this article, we provide actionable tips and introduce Origami International Patent Firm's unique offerings to support efficient, affordable filings.
1. File Electronically and Early
Filing electronically via a local patent firm in Japan helps reduce administrative overheads and processing time. Filing early also avoids unnecessary late fees and allows for better planning of translation and formal requirements.
2. Optimize Translation Volume
One of the largest cost drivers is the translation of PCT documents into Japanese. Consider amending your application during the international phase (under Article 19 or Article 34) to eliminate redundant or less critical content. Origami offers legal-grade translation at only 30 JPY per English word, which is one of the most competitive rates in the Japanese market.
3. Combine Claims to Minimize Excess Fees
Japan Patent Office charges additional fees for applications with a large number of claims. Combining overlapping claims and removing unnecessary ones before entry can reduce fees significantly. Our professionals will assist you in adjusting claims strategically while retaining the scope of protection.
4. Leverage Cost-Effective Agents
Partnering with a firm that specializes in international filings and offers transparent pricing can yield big savings. At Origami International Patent Firm, we provide:
- Flat-rate Filing Fee: JPY 43,000 (includes basic procedures and amendments)
- Real-time Status Updates: via our client portal
5. Consider PPH for Fast-Track Examination
If your PCT application received favorable examination results in another country, you may use the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) to accelerate the JPO process, reducing attorney time and office action costs.
Why Work With Origami International Patent Firm?
We specialize in helping overseas clients navigate Japan’s patent system with clarity and cost-efficiency. Learn more at our detailed overview: PCT/Paris Entry into Japan – Origami Firm.
FAQs on Reducing Japan Entry Costs
Can I amend the application to reduce translation cost?
Yes. Removing unnecessary descriptions and combining claims can reduce the volume to be translated.
Is there a cheaper way to file than using large firms?
Yes. Boutique firms like Origami offer direct service without the high administrative fees of larger firms.
Does Origami provide both filing and translation?
Absolutely. We handle the entire process—from translation to filing to examination support.
Are there hidden costs I should know?
No. Our pricing is flat-rate and transparent. Optional services are clearly explained in advance.
Contact Information
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".
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