What is the patent application process in New Zealand?

1. Open. After the patent applicant submits a patent application, the patent specification of the patent applicant can be published in IPONZ official website within 18 months from the date of filing. The review report related to the application and the applicant's reply will also be made public. Anyone who thinks that the disclosed invention lacks novelty or creativity can submit an opinion to IPONZ before the application is approved. The opinions of third parties will be taken into account in the IPONZ review process.

2. Request for review. Generally speaking, applicants for New Zealand patents must apply to IPONZ for examination within 5 years after submitting a complete specification. The Patent Commissioner may also instruct the applicant to request examination according to his authority or the request of a third party, and the applicant who receives the instruction shall request examination within 2 months.

3. Search and view. IPONZ will search before the examination to ensure the novelty and creativity of the patented invention.

4. Agree and disagree. Within 3 months after the publication of the New Zealand patent, anyone can submit a written notice of objection to IPONZ and explain the reasons, and the applicant can also reply. The patent Commissioner shall make a final decision after the hearing. Those who refuse to accept the Commissioner's decision can appeal to the High Court of New Zealand.

5. Authorization and extension. If no objection is raised or the objection is not established within 3 months after publication, IPONZ will issue an authorization notice. The validity period of the authorized patent is 20 years, but after the patent is authorized for 3 years, it is necessary to pay the renewal fee every year for renewal. If the patent royalty is not paid within 6 months, the patent authorization will be invalid, and the patentee may request the restoration of the authorized patent within the statutory time limit.