In business and innovation, timing is everything—especially when it comes to patents. Unlike trademarks, where rights can last indefinitely if maintained properly, or copyrights, where they last for a very long time whether they’re registered or not, patents require registration, operate on a strict timeline, and last for a comparatively limited time. While the Rolling Stones said time is on their side, time ISN’T on your side with patents.

If you miss a patent deadline, you could lose your exclusive rights forever. Let’s break down the key dates you need to know to protect your inventions.

Does It Matter WHEN You Submit a Patent Application?

Yes, and here’s why:

• First-to-File System: In the U.S., the patent system operates on a first-to-file basis, meaning the first person to file a patent application—not necessarily the first to invent—gets the rights. If someone else beats you to the Patent Office, they could secure the patent instead of you. (If you can prove they stole the idea from you, you can work to stop their application, but that can be expensive.)
• Public Disclosure Risks: If you publicly disclose your invention (e.g., through sales, publications, or presentations), you have only one year to file a patent application. After that, your invention may no longer be eligible for a patent.
• Provisional vs. Non-Provisional Applications: Filing a provisional patent application establishes an early filing date but gives you only one year to file a non-provisional application. If you miss the deadline, your provisional application expires with no patent protection.
• International Application Timing: Some countries have the same one-year grace period the US does, but many have a much shorter grace period or none at all, meaning if you don’t file there within the right time period, you won’t be able to get a patent in that country.

How Long Do Patent Rights Last?

Patent protection isn’t indefinite—it has a firm expiration date. The type of patent determines its lifespan:

• Utility Patents (covering new and useful inventions): Last 20 years from the filing date, but you must pay maintenance fees at 3.5, 7.5, and 11.5 years to keep it active.
• Design Patents (covering ornamental designs of products): Last 15 years from the grant date, with no maintenance fees required.
• Plant Patents (covering new plant varieties): Last 20 years from the filing date, similar to utility patents.

Key Patent Law Dates to Remember

• Date of Invention: While not usually legally significant anymore, documenting your invention date can help in disputes.
• Filing Date: Establishes priority under the first-to-file rule—earlier is always better.
• Provisional Filing Date: If you file a provisional application in the US, you must convert it into a non-provisional application within one year.
• Public Disclosure Date: Triggers the one-year deadline to file a patent application with the USPTO before losing rights (this is shorter or non-existent in many other countries).
• Patent Grant Date: Marks the official start of your enforceable patent rights.
• Maintenance Fee Deadlines (for utility patents): Required at 3.5, 7.5, and 11.5 years to prevent expiration.
• Expiration Date: After 20 years for utility and plant patents, or 15 years for design patents, the invention enters the public domain and can be freely used by anyone.

Final Thoughts: Act Fast or Lose Your Rights

Patents have the strictest time limits compared with trademarks and copyrights. If you wait too long to file or miss key deadlines, you risk losing your rights permanently. If you have an invention you want to protect, don’t assume time is on your side—consult a patent attorney and act before it’s too late!

Do you have questions about patent timelines? Drop them in the comments!