Should I file a PCT application?

This option typically depends on your commercial strategy and budget. If you are only considering pursuing patent protection in one or two jurisdictions, it is typically more cost-effective to circumvent the PCT application and directly file in those jurisdictions. However, if a decision cannot be made on relevant jurisdictions, or you merely wish to maintain options in your commercial strategy, a PCT application maintains your rights to enter in over 150 contracting countries or regions.

In many situations, a PCT application is seen as an effective commercial tool for maintaining your patent rights while postponing the significant investments required for multiple national patent applications.