Q1 — Categories: 3 types — invention patent, utility model patent, and design patent.
Q2 — Filing procedure
Invention: Filing → Acceptance → Preliminary examination → Publication (≈18 months from filing date) → Substantive examination (must be requested) → Grant & announcement
Utility model / Design: Filing → Acceptance → Preliminary examination → Grant & announcement
Q3 — Required materials
Invention / Utility model: Request, specification, claims, drawings (for utility model, mandatory), abstract and abstract drawing
Design: Request, drawings or photographs (six views), brief description
General: Fee-reduction request (if applicable), power of attorney (if using an agent)
Q4 — Time
Invention: ≈1.5–3 years (priority examination available to expedite)
Utility model: ≈6–12 months
Design: ≈4–8 months
Q5 — Fees (official fees, excluding agent fees; a 85% or 70% reduction may apply if eligible)
Agent fees are extra (varies by firm). Figures reflect standard rates — always verify against the latest official CNIPA schedule.
