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Japanese Small Entity (Handling Fee Reduction/Exemption Program)


As you may know, the Japan Patent Office (JPO) provides a program to reduce or exempt official fees (examination fees and registration fees) for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), individuals, universities, and other entities that meet certain requirements. Here, we share an overview of the program, including the details of the requirements and procedures. For more detailed information on the reduction system, please refer to the JPO’s website.
https://www.jpo.go.jp/system/process/tesuryo/genmen/genmen20190401/document/index/leaflet_e.pdf


Overview of the JPO’s Fee Reduction Program

The JPO’s fee reduction program allows SMEs, individuals, universities, and research institutions that meet the requirements to reduce or exempt official fees (examination fees and registration fees). This program significantly reduces the economic burden on applicants, supporting the development and protection of intellectual property.

Requirements for Fee Reduction

To apply for the fee reduction program, applicants must meet the requirements set by the JPO. These requirements are as follows:

– Being a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), an individual, a university, or a research institution (detailed requirements are set for each type of reduction).

Applicable System Varies Depending on the Date of the Request for Examination
Please note that the applicable reduction measures differ depending on the date of filing a request for examination of the patent application. For patent applications where a request for examination was made on or after April 1, 2019, the new system applies.

Procedures for Fee Reduction

To apply for the fee reduction program under the old system, applicants need to submit (i) an application form for the program and (ii) a document that can verify the amount of capital and the number of employees to the JPO. Under the new system, these requisite documents can be omitted.

Conclusion

Determining which reduction measures you can receive and what documents are required can be very complex and difficult. If you have any difficulties with this matter, please feel free to consult with SKIP. We are ready to fully utilize the fee reduction program to allow you to proceed with the process at a lower cost and with better cost-effectiveness.