Patent Lawyers in Pakistan for Local and International Clients

Raza & Associates advises inventors, startups, universities, research institutions, businesses and international companies on patent protection in Pakistan. Patent matters are time-sensitive because public disclosure, incomplete documentation or missed filing deadlines can affect the ability to protect an invention.

Our patent services cover preparation and filing of patent applications, provisional and complete specifications, correspondence with the relevant patent authorities, patent renewals, portfolio management and enforcement support. We also assist foreign companies and overseas law firms that require Pakistan-based patent counsel.

Filing a Patent Application in Pakistan

Patent applications in Pakistan are filed through the Patent Office under the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan. A patent application may be supported by either a provisional specification or a complete specification, depending on the stage of the invention and the applicant filing strategy.

For inventors who are still developing or testing an invention, a provisional specification may be used to secure an early filing date. For inventions that are already fully developed, a complete specification may be filed from the beginning.

Provisional Specification in Pakistan

In Pakistan, a provisional specification is often the first application filed for an invention. It usually contains a brief but meaningful description of the invention and does not normally need to include formal patent claims.

• A provisional specification can help secure an early priority position.
• It is useful when the invention is still being refined.
• It should explain the invention, its technical field and its working principle.
• It should be clear enough to support the later complete specification.
• A complete specification must be filed within the required deadline.

Complete Specification and the 12-Month Deadline

Where a patent application is first filed with a provisional specification, a complete specification must be filed within 12 months from the date of filing of the provisional specification.

The complete specification is more detailed and normally includes claims that define the legal scope of the protection being sought. Missing the deadline for filing the complete specification can create serious consequences, so applicants should track the 12-month date from the beginning.

Patent Filing Fees and HEC Patent Support

Patent filing costs in Pakistan may vary depending on the type of filing, applicant category, specification type and official fee schedule in force at the time of filing. Applicants should confirm the latest official fee before submitting an application.

Inventors connected with universities or research institutions may also wish to check whether HEC patent support is available for their case. Such programs may help with patentability evaluation and official filing support, subject to eligibility and current program rules.

Patent Services We Provide

• Patent filing strategy.
• Provisional specification support.
• Complete specification filing.
• Patent prosecution and correspondence.
• Patent renewals and portfolio support.
• Patent assignment and licensing support.
• Patent infringement and enforcement coordination.
• Local counsel support for foreign applicants and international law firms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a provisional patent application in Pakistan?

Patent applications in Pakistan may be filed with a provisional specification. This is commonly used when the invention is still being developed and the applicant wants to secure an early filing date.

Does a provisional specification need claims?

A provisional specification generally need not include formal claims. However, it should still describe the invention clearly and carefully so it can support the complete specification.

Where are patent applications filed in Pakistan?

Patent applications are filed through the Patent Office under the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan.