Applying for an international patent online


Our online service is a faster, cheaper way to file international patent applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT).

PCT applications filed electronically are eligible for a discount, depending on the format of the application, and can be transmitted to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) faster because there is no paper or postage involved. See the fees page for details.

Our PCT online service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except during advertised maintenance periods) so that you can file your international patent applications at your own convenience.

You can obtain the XML specification for PCT documents from the WIPO website. You can use WIPO's PCT-SAFE Editor to prepare your application documents in WIPO's XML format.

Preparing your application with PCT-SAFE

In order to use the PCT online service, you will need to get the latest version of WIPO's PCT-SAFE software package and a free digital certificate from the WIPO website.

If you already have an ABN-DSC Certificate issued under the Australian Government's Gatekeeper scheme you can use it instead.

Customers already using the PCT-SAFE software to file using the PCT-EASY method are encouraged to upgrade to the latest version to receive the benefits of our new PCT online service.

Electronic document formats accepted

You can use any of the following document formats for submitting your PCT application electronically:

  • XML
  • WIPO Standard ST.25*
  • PDF (attachments only)
  • TIFF (attachments only)

* Used for the presentation of Nucleotide and Amino Acid Sequence Listings in patent specifications.

Filing your PCT application online

Once you have prepared your application using PCT-SAFE and saved it as a WASP (.zg1) file, it is ready for submission through our online International (PCT) application (requires login).

Once you have uploaded your application you will be given a pre-filing number and an electronic submission receipt will be issued.

If there are any technical problems with your application (e.g. invalid digital signature, virus, missing attachments) these will be explained in your submission receipt.

Payment options for PCT applications

After you have submitted your application, you will have two options for payment - 'Pay Now' or 'Pay Later'. If you select Pay Now you will be directed to the online payment form after you have submitted your application.

If you select Pay Later we will send you a fee notice.

Checking the status of online applications

You can access copies of submission receipts and view the status of your applications online for up to six months after your submission date by  using the Check Status of PCT Application form (requires login).

Resubmitting online applications

If your application generated an error when you uploaded it, then you will need to contact IP Australia for assistance to resubmit your application. You may be asked to submit a complete paper application in order to secure your original filing date.

Size limit for online filing

If the WASP file for your application exceeds 20MB it cannot be filed online.

For applications with large files, you can use the PCT-EASY mode of WIPO's PCT-SAFE software to prepare your request form and submit your specification on a CD-ROM or floppy disc.

Filing dates

Filing dates for electronic applications will be based on the date or time that we receive your application in full.

For resubmitted applications, the filing date may be backdated to the original submission date once the resubmitted application has been verified.

Processing of online PCT applications

Aside from the calculation of fees and the method of transmission to WIPO's International Bureau, PCT applications filed electronically through us will be treated the same as applications filed through other methods.

For help or support

For further information about WIPO's PCT-SAFE software and digital certificates, please refer to WIPO PCT user support.

Any support required for the WIPO PCT-SAFE software or digital certificates should be requested from the WIPO PCT-SAFE help desk.

If you are experiencing problems with uploading or checking the status of PCT-SAFE applications through this website, please contact us for assistance.

PCT application forms

Alternatively you can use our PDF forms below:

PCT Request Form

PCT Demand Form

Supplementary International Search (SIS) Form

Last Updated: 02/4/2012