Patent Application: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to secure a legal monopoly on your new invention and protect your technical solutions in New Zealand.
A patent application is a legal process used to protect a new technical invention. If approved, it gives you exclusive rights to your creation for a set period.
Who it's for
This is for inventors who have developed a technical solution that is both new and not an obvious step to others in the same field.
What you get
You receive a monopoly on your invention for 20 years. This means you are the only person allowed to make, use, or sell your invention during that time.
What it costs you
While there are government fees, the most significant costs are often the high legal fees and the professional costs of hiring a patent attorney to handle the complex paperwork.
The catch to know
You must keep your invention a secret until your application is filed. If you disclose how your invention works to the public before you file, you will likely lose the ability to get a patent.
How to apply
- Research your invention to ensure it is truly new.
- Consult with a professional to help manage the complex filing requirements.
- Submit your formal application through the official portal.