Patents: Zimbabwe
General Information
International Agreements : Paris Convention, Harare Protocol (ARIPO) & PCT.
Patent Types : Non-Convention, Paris Convention, PCT International & PCT National/Regional.
Novelty Requirements : Non disclosure prior to priority date.
Claiming priority : Yes
Examination : Formal examination (no substantive)
Protection Period : 20 Years
Publication : Yes - One publication in Patent Journal.
Oppositions : Yes - 3 months are allowed for 3rd party objections.
Annuitiy Payments : Yearly renewal payments from 4th year.
Grace period for payments : 6 months with fines.
Compulsory Licensing : Procedure is available.
Working or nominal working of Patents/Inventions : Advisable.
Filing Requirements
Patent Filing Requirements
- Three (3) copies of specification, claims & Drawings.
- Power of attorney.
- Deed of Assignment.
- Certified copy of priority application.
For PCT National Phase application, ONLY specifications and power of attorney.