FAQ - Patents

What does a standard patent application in Thailand entail?

For a standard patent application, the basic procedures include a) filing of the application; b) priority claim if applicable; c) publication; d) request for examination; and e) the registration of the patent. Documents would normally have to be translated into Thai language.

How long is the whole process to obtain a patent?

Obtaining a patent usually takes 2 - 5 years from the date of the filing of the application.

What is the duration for patent registrations?

The duration for patent registrations differs depending on the types of patents. All patents are subject to the payment of annual fees for patent protection.

Type of Patent	Duration (from date of filing)	Renewal Period
Invention	20 years	A patentee shall pay the first annual fee within 60 days of the commencement of the 5th year, after the date of filing.
Design	10 years	-
Petty	6 years	After 6 years, it is twice renewable for an extension period of 2 years.

I would like to file for a patent application; which are the documents necessary?

For the initial filing period, specification of invention, claims, abstract and drawings in English are necessary documents. Within 90 days of filing, the applicant must produce:

a) Deed of assignment (if the applicant is not the inventor)
b) Statement of applicant's rights (if the applicant is the inventor or creator)
c) Power of Attorney (If an agent acts on the behalf. The agent must be registered with the Intellectual Property Department and it must be notarized)
d) Specification in Thai
e) Information about the applicant