What is a patent?

A patent gives you the exclusive right to use your invention for commercial purposes, such as manufacturing, selling or importing. A patented invention is a significant competitive edge and an effective way to prevent your competitors from copying your idea.

In order to patent your invention, it must be new, involve an inventive step and be industrially viable. Our experts will assess whether your invention meets the requirements for patenting and help you plan your protection strategy.

Validity of a patent and applications in Finland

• Patent applications are filed with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH)
• The processing time is approximately 2–2.5 years from submitting the application
• In Finland, patents are granted for a maximum of 20 years
• Patents can be extended separately for medicinal products and plant protection products

International patenting

National patent application abroad

• Filed directly with the country’s office
• Possible to utilize the priority year from the first application

 European patent (EP application)

• You can apply for a patent in over 40 countries with one European patent application (EPO)
• The patent will be valid in each country once it is registered separately
• The European patent facilitates the process compared to filing several national applications in Europe and saves you money

PCT system

A Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application is an international patent application. It does not lead to a patent, but it helps you plan an effective and step-by-step patenting strategy.

• Gives you time (up to 30–31 months) to decide the countries in which you want to apply for protection
• Provides an assessment of the novelty, inventive step and industrial applicability of your invention
• Facilitates the global application process (more than 150 member countries)

Unitary patent (UPC)

The unitary patent and Unified Patent Court (UPC) were established in 2023. The system allows inventions to be protected by a single unitary patent in 18 EU countries.

System:

• Offers centralized protection and management and can be registered when the European patent is granted
• Reduces translation and maintenance costs
• Simplifies potential disputes
• Members of the system include Finland, Germany, France and Italy

How do you select the right patenting method?

Here are a few factors to consider when drafting your patent strategy:

• Target market and expansion plans for your business
• Costs and resources
• Competitive situation and industry-specific dynamics