The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) lets Indian applicants file one international application and delay national phase entry in multiple countries by up to 30–31 months from priority.
When PCT makes sense
PCT suits startups planning US, European, or Asian filings but needing time for funding and market validation. Direct national filings may be cheaper for a single target country.
Key deadlines
File PCT within 12 months of the Indian priority application. National phase entries must follow in each designated state before the 30/31-month deadline.
Coordinate Indian parent filing, PCT, and foreign associates early. Speak with our patent team.