The application process for invention patents in Belgium is quite different from that in my country, mainly reflected in the examination procedures of the two countries. When applying for a Belgian invention patent, after the applicant submits the application, the Patent Office will first conduct a formal examination. After meeting the requirements, it will be published 18 months from the invention patent application date (or priority date). The application does not need to undergo substantive examination, and patent rights are granted upon publication.
The applicant can submit a novelty search request to the Patent Office within 18 months from the filing date (or priority date), and the Patent Office will issue a search report after the search.