Petty Patent Registration
Protection for inventions with only a small improvement over existing solutions, registered much faster than an invention patent — ideal for businesses that need to protect an idea before it reaches the market.
What Kind of Invention Fits
A petty patent protects an invention the same way an invention patent does, but doesn't require an inventive step at all — ideal for improving and building on something that already exists so it works better.
What Can and Can't Be Protected
Sample Petty Patent Certificate
Protected for 6 years, renewable up to 10 years — illustrative sample, not an official government document.
the Department of Intellectual Property grants this petty patent to
Petty Patent
6-year term, renewable up to 10 years
Click to view full sizeTimeframe and Fees
Documents to Prepare
- ID card, or company registration (for a corporate entity)
- Description of the invention, explaining the part improved from the existing solution
- Drawings or sketches (if available)
- Power of attorney (if a patent agent files on your behalf)
How Petty Patent Registration Works With Us
From a free consultation through to filing — faster because we prepare documents in advance.
Call for a Consultation
Call us at 085-351-7977
Gather Information
Our team requests details on what's been improved from the existing solution
Draft Application, Prepare Documents
We draft documents and prepare any supporting images
File and Manage Through to Registration
We file and manage the process through to registration, including renewals
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a petty patent different from an invention patent?
A petty patent doesn't require an inventive step at all, unlike an invention patent, suited to smaller incremental improvements. It's granted much faster (roughly 6 months–1 year, versus 3–5 years for an invention patent), but protects for a shorter term (6 years, renewable up to 10 years, versus 20 years).
How do I renew a petty patent?
A petty patent's initial term is 6 years, and it can be renewed twice for up to 2 years each time, for a total maximum of 10 years from the filing date.
What kind of business does this suit?
It suits businesses that need fast protection for an idea, particularly for products with a short life cycle or that are frequently updated — such as household items, small electrical appliances, or a modified manufacturing process.
Can I file an invention patent alongside it?
In principle, a single invention can only be filed one way, depending on its nature and your business strategy. Our team will help assess which filing route suits your invention during the initial consultation.
Why doesn't a petty patent go through the same in-depth examination as an invention patent?
The Department of Intellectual Property only checks a petty patent application for document accuracy and basic novelty — there is no Substantive Examination step like there is for an invention patent, which is why protection is granted much faster. This does, however, mean novelty hasn't been screened as thoroughly as for a full patent; if a dispute arises later, the other party can request a retrospective novelty check.
What happens if my petty patent application is refused?
You can file an appeal or amend the application with the Department of Intellectual Property within the specified time limit, the same as with an invention patent. An experienced patent agent will help assess the right approach based on the grounds for refusal.
Is a petty patent protected internationally?
A petty patent only protects you in the country where it's registered, same as an invention patent — and not every country has a petty patent / utility model system. If you need international protection, consult our team to check whether your target country has this system and the best approach.
Can a petty patent be transferred or sold?
Yes. The owner can fully assign the right or license it to someone else with a limited scope or term, the same as an invention patent. This should be done through a written contract and recorded with the Department of Intellectual Property to bind third parties.
Want the full picture before filing? Read the complete Petty Patent Guide in our Knowledge Center
Clients who trust us with their petty patent registration
Ready to protect your invention?
Free consultation with our patent agents — we'll assess whether a petty patent fits your work.