GET A PATENT IN UKRAINE — A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR FOREIGN APPLICANTS

Contact with a patent attorney in Ukraine: roma.uanite@gmail.com, +38 097 10 111 60

In a globalized economy, protecting your intellectual property across multiple jurisdictions is crucial for sustainable business growth. Ukraine, with its strategic location, growing innovation ecosystem, and well-established legal framework, offers strong patent protection for both local and foreign applicants. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a multinational corporation, or an independent inventor, obtaining a patent in Ukraine can safeguard your technological advances and enhance your competitive edge in the region.

At Unite.ua, we provide comprehensive assistance for foreign clients, making the patent registration process in Ukraine smooth, transparent, and fully remote.

Types of Patents Available in Ukraine

Ukraine offers two primary forms of patent protection:

• Invention Patent: Granted for new technical solutions that involve an inventive step and are capable of industrial application. The patent is valid for up to 20 years from the filing date, subject to annual renewal fees.
• Utility Model Patent: Available for technical solutions that may not meet the inventive step threshold required for inventions. Utility model patents are granted faster and offer protection for up to 10 years.

The choice between an invention and a utility model often depends on the level of innovation and the commercial strategy of the applicant.

Who Can Apply for a Patent?

Both individuals and legal entities may apply for patent protection in Ukraine.
Foreign applicants have the right to file applications directly or through a registered Ukrainian patent attorney. Representation by a local patent attorney is mandatory for non-residents.
A simple Power of Attorney (without notarization) is usually sufficient to authorize your representative.

Patentability Requirements

To obtain a patent in Ukraine, an invention must meet the following criteria:

• Novelty: The invention must not have been publicly disclosed anywhere in the world prior to the filing date.
• Inventive Step: The invention must not be obvious to a person skilled in the relevant technical field.
• Industrial Applicability: The invention must be capable of being used in industry, agriculture, healthcare, or other sectors.

Non-patentable subject matter includes scientific theories, mathematical methods, aesthetic creations, rules and methods for performing mental acts, and presentations of information.

The Patent Registration Process

The standard process for patent registration in Ukraine consists of the following steps:

1. Prior Art Search (Optional)
   Conducting a preliminary search can help assess the chances of patentability and avoid conflicts with existing rights.
2. Preparing and Filing the Application
   A complete application must include a request for grant, a description of the invention, claims, drawings (if applicable), and an abstract.
3. Formal Examination
   The Ukrainian Intellectual Property Institute (Ukrpatent) reviews the application for compliance with formal requirements.
4. Substantive Examination (for inventions only)
   A detailed examination is conducted upon request to evaluate the novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability of the claimed invention.
5. Grant and Publication
   Upon successful examination, the patent is granted, published in the official bulletin, and the certificate is issued.

Timeframes for Obtaining a Patent

• Utility Model Patent: Typically granted within 6 to 9 months after filing.
• Invention Patent: The process generally takes 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the examination.

An accelerated examination procedure may be available in certain cases to expedite the process.

Costs and Fees

The overall cost of obtaining a patent in Ukraine includes:

• Official Fees: Filing fees, examination fees, and grant/publication fees.
• Professional Fees: Costs for the preparation, filing, and prosecution services provided by your patent attorney.
• Annual Maintenance Fees: Payable each year to keep the patent in force.

At Unite.ua, we offer clear and competitive pricing with no hidden costs. Upon request, we provide detailed cost estimates tailored to your specific case.

Patent Protection for Foreign Applicants

Foreign applicants can obtain patent protection in Ukraine either:

• Directly by filing a national application with Ukrpatent through a local representative; or
• Via the PCT Route: If you have an international application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), Ukraine can be selected for national phase entry within 31 months from the priority date.

Our team ensures full compliance with Ukrainian laws and regulations, making the filing process seamless and efficient.

Benefits of Having a Patent in Ukraine

Registering a patent in Ukraine offers a range of advantages:

• Exclusive Rights: Legal protection against unauthorized use, manufacturing, or commercialization of your invention.
• Commercial Opportunities: Licenses, technology transfer agreements, and franchising possibilities.
• Market Expansion: Easier access to the Ukrainian and regional markets.
• Increased Business Value: Strengthens your intellectual property portfolio, adding significant value to your company.

Why Choose Unite.ua for Patent Registration?

At Unite.ua, we understand the challenges foreign applicants face when entering new jurisdictions. Our team of qualified patent attorneys and IP specialists offers:

• Extensive experience with international clients.
• Full support throughout the application and registration process.
• Remote communication and document handling.
• Transparent, predictable pricing and clear timelines.

We are committed to protecting your innovations and ensuring your success in Ukraine and beyond.

Securing a patent in Ukraine is a strategic move for any innovator seeking to expand their intellectual property rights into new markets. With the right legal partner, the process can be straightforward, efficient, and entirely remote.

At Unite.ua, we are ready to guide you at every step — from the initial consultation to the final certificate in your hands.
Contact us today to protect your innovation and take the first step toward your success in Ukraine.