FAQs

A patent is an invention that is novel, involves an inventive step and is industrially applicable.

The appropriate form may be completed and submitted online at ips.gov.mt accompanied by the patent abstract, specification and claims.

  1. In the case where a representative has been appointed – a certified copy of the power of attorney document must also be submitted.
  2. In the case where priority is being claimed – a certified copy of the priority document must also be submitted. If this is not available on application it is possible to submit the priority document within 16 months from the filing date of the earlier application (i.e. the application from which priority is being claimed).

Applicants who do not have an ordinary residence or a principal place of business in Malta or an EU Member state, must appoint a local representative.

The cost for the new patent is €116.47 covering filing, grant and publication of the new patent. There is an additional cost of €23.30 for every claim over the tenth claim.

It will take approximately eighteen months from date of filing to date of grant, given that the law stipulates that a patent cannot be published before 18 months from the date of filing.