How to Patent an Idea in Canada

Do you have an idea for a product? Great ideas can make you a lot of money if you know how to protect them properly. Getting a patent in Canada may take awhile, but it's worth it if you're serious about capitalizing on your idea.

Instructions

1. Complete a patent search to ensure that no one has already patented your idea in Canada (see Resources).

2. Choose a patent agent or attorney to help you through the process. Your agent's fees are usually around $5,000, but they are necessary due to the technicalities of applying for an idea patent.

3. File an application. The application for a patent in Canada can be found at the Canadian Intellectual Property Office's website (see Resources).

4. Request an examination by someone from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office. They will examine your patent, search for prior patents and potentially ask you to change or hone your idea.

5. Consider the examiner's suggestions and tweak your idea, as necessary. Resubmit your application with the changes.

6. Wait for the examiner's decision on whether to accept or deny your application. The process in Canada can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years.

Resources

• Canada Patent Search
• Canada Patent Application