IP Protection Internationally
we guide clients through the process of determining where to file, based on their commercial goals.
Safeguard Your IP Worldwide
Protect your innovations, brands, and designs across borders with strategic international IP protection.
When deciding whether to file an application for IP Protection in other countries, a consideration of the above different options can indicate the most preferable way of applying for the IP protection.
Expand Your IP Strategy Beyond Borders
Many of our clients aim to protect their intellectual property (IP) not just in Australia or New Zealand, but also internationally. Whether you’re launching a new product, entering overseas markets, or simply securing your competitive advantage globally, we can assist.
We work closely with a network of trusted IP attorney firms worldwide to help our clients secure and manage their IP rights across multiple jurisdictions. Our team acts as your central point of contact, ensuring that your international filings, renewals, disputes, and other IP matters are handled with consistency and care — all under our instructions.
Likewise, overseas firms often engage our services to manage IP applications and other matters on behalf of their clients in Australia and New Zealand.
Strategic International Filing Matters
Before pursuing international protection, we guide clients through the process of determining where to file, based on their commercial goals. For Example:
- A business developing a patented mining technology may target countries with active mining industries.
- A fashion brand may seek registered trade mark protection in regions where it intends to expand or distribute its products.to your invention
We take the time to understand your commercial direction and tailor your filing strategy accordingly.
Using International Agreements to Your Advantage
There are a number of international agreements that can simplify the process of applying for IP protection in multiple countries and offer significant cost advantages. These include:
- Paris Convention – allows you to claim priority for patents, trade marks, and designsoping a patented mining technology may target countries with active mining industries.
- Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) – simplifies filing patents in multiple countries
- Madrid Protocol – streamlines trade mark applications internationally
We regularly advise our clients on the most appropriate treaty routes, their benefits and limitations, and how to use them to minimise costs and maximise protection.
International IP Searches
Conducting searches in international databases can be crucial to avoid conflicts and assess risks before applying for IP in another country.
The timing, type, and scope of a search will depend on your IP type (e.g., patent, trade mark, or design), the application stage, and whether you’re using a treaty-based system that includes its own formal search component.
We provide practical advice on what searches to consider and when.
Is It Worth Applying Internationally?
The cost of IP applications varies significantly across countries. However, using international agreements can reduce costs and streamline administration.
We help you weigh the expected benefits — such as enhanced commercial opportunities, licensing potential, or market exclusivity — against the investment needed for international protection.
Whether your goal is to secure a foothold in new markets or strengthen your IP portfolio against global competitors, we’ll help you decide the most efficient and commercially sound path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is a patent?
A patent is a form of legal protection for an invention. It gives you the exclusive right to commercially exploit your invention for a certain period of time.
What types of inventions can be patented?
You can patent new products, methods, processes, systems, devices, or improvements to existing ones—as long as they are novel, inventive, and useful.
What is the difference between a standard patent and an innovation patent?
A standard patent offers long-term protection (up to 20 years) and is suitable for more complex inventions. Innovation patents (now discontinued for new filings in Australia) offered shorter-term protection with faster approval but less rigorous examination.
How long does it take to get a patent?
The process can take anywhere from 6 months to several years depending on the complexity of the invention, the patent office’s backlog, and whether examination is requested early.
Can I apply for a patent internationally?
Yes, you can apply for patent protection in other countries. This is usually done through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) or by filing directly in each country.
Ready to Protect Your IP Globally?
We make the complex process of international IP protection simple and strategic. Contact us today to discuss your goals and explore how we can help protect your intellectual property