# Patent Filing — Provisional & Complete Specification

> An Indian patent application can start with a provisional specification that secures your filing date, followed by the complete specification within 12 months. The application is published after 18 months (earlier on request) and examined only after a request for examination, which must be filed within 31 months of the priority date under the 2024 rules. A granted patent lasts 20 years from the filing date, subject to annual renewal fees.

Practice: Trademark, Copyright & Patents — https://www.industax.com/services/trademark-ip/

Drafting the claims decides how much protection you actually get, so applications are prepared by registered patent agents. Startups and small entities pay reduced official fees and can request expedited examination.

If you plan to file abroad, the Indian filing date can be claimed as priority in other countries within 12 months, or through a PCT application.

## Key facts

| Item | Detail |
| --- | --- |
| Provisional → complete | Complete specification within 12 months |
| Publication | 18 months from priority (earlier on request) |
| Request for examination | Within 31 months of priority (2024 rules) |
| Term | 20 years from filing, with annual renewal fees |
| Startups | Reduced fees and expedited examination available |

## Who needs this

- Startups with technical inventions
- Manufacturers and R&D teams
- Inventors planning international filings

## What's included

- Specification and claims drafting
- Filing and fee planning
- Examination and objection responses
- PCT / foreign filing coordination

## Documents

- Invention disclosure and drawings
- Inventor and applicant details
- Startup recognition (for fee benefits)

## Process

1. **Draft** — Specification and claims prepared by a patent agent.
2. **File** — Provisional or complete application filed.
3. **Examine** — Examination requested; objections answered.
4. **Grant** — Patent granted; renewals docketed.

## Also covers

- **Provisional patent application** — Securing an early filing date.
- **Complete specification** — Full description and claims within 12 months.

Work that legally requires a registered patent agent is signed by a partner professional; Indus Tax coordinates it.

## FAQs

### What is a provisional patent application?

A filing that secures your priority date with a description of the invention; the complete specification with claims must follow within 12 months.

### How long does a patent last in India?

20 years from the filing date, if renewal fees are paid.

### Who can file a patent application for me?

You can file yourself, but drafting and prosecution are normally done by a registered patent agent.

## Official sources

- IP India — Trade Marks Registry & e-filing: https://ipindia.gov.in/

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Canonical page: https://www.industax.com/services/trademark-ip/patent-filing
Publisher: Indus Tax — CA-led tax and compliance firm (https://www.industax.com). Contact: info@industax.com, 9059139258.
This is general information, not advice for your specific facts.