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Patent Search India - IPC Classification Guide

Search for patents in India and browse IPC (International Patent Classification) classes. Includes links to IPO InPASS, Google Patents, WIPO. Patent filing fees and process guide for India.

Patent Search & IPC Classification Guide

Search Indian patents and find the right IPC class

Search Indian Patents at IPO InPASS

The Indian Patent Office (IPO) provides free patent search through InPASS (Indian Patent Advanced Search System). Search by title, abstract, applicant, inventor, IPC class, or application number.

Open IPO InPASS

Patent Search Tips

  • Use specific technical terms, not brand names
  • Search by IPC class code if you know it (e.g., G06F for computing)
  • Check both granted patents and published applications
  • Search international databases (Google Patents, WIPO) for broader coverage
  • A patent search (prior art search) before filing saves time and money

Patent Types in India

Utility Patent

Term: 20 years from filing date

Protects new inventions or functional improvements. Most common type in India.

Design Patent

Term: 15 years from grant date

Protects ornamental/visual design of a functional item. Filed under Designs Act, 2000.

Plant Variety

Term: 15-18 years

Protection for new plant varieties under Protection of Plant Varieties Act, 2001.

IPC Classification Browser

The International Patent Classification (IPC) organizes all technology areas into 8 sections. Find the right IPC class for your invention before filing.

Patent Filing in India - Quick Reference

ParameterDetails
Filing AuthorityIndian Patent Office (IPO) under CGPDTM
Governing LawPatents Act, 1970 (amended 2005)
Patent Term20 years from filing date
Filing Fee (Individual)Rs 1,600 (e-filing) / Rs 4,000 (physical)
Filing Fee (Startup)Rs 4,000 (e-filing) - 80% rebate available
Filing Fee (Others)Rs 8,000 (e-filing) / Rs 20,000 (physical)
Examination FeeRs 4,000 (individual) / Rs 20,000 (others)
Processing Time2-5 years (expedited: 12-18 months)
Annual RenewalFrom 3rd year onwards, increasing yearly
IPO OfficesDelhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai

Useful Patent Search Databases

IPO InPASS (India)

Official Indian Patent search

Google Patents

Free global patent search

WIPO PATENTSCOPE

International PCT applications

USPTO (US Patents)

US Patent & Trademark Office

Espacenet (EPO)

European Patent Office search

IPO e-Filing

File a patent application in India

How to Search for Patents in India

  1. Define your search - Identify the key technical features of your invention.
  2. Find the IPC class - Use our IPC browser above to find the right classification for your technology area.
  3. Search IPO InPASS - Use the Indian Patent Office search tool to find existing patents in India.
  4. Search globally - Check Google Patents, WIPO, and Espacenet for international prior art.
  5. Review results - Read patent claims carefully to assess whether your invention is novel.
  6. Consult a patent attorney - For a thorough patentability assessment before filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can be patented in India?
In India, patents are granted for inventions that are novel, involve an inventive step, and are capable of industrial application. This includes new products, processes, and methods. Software per se, business methods, mathematical algorithms, and discoveries of nature are not patentable under Section 3 of the Patents Act.
How much does patent filing cost in India?
For individuals/startups: Rs 1,600 (e-filing) for the application + Rs 4,000 for examination request. Startups get an 80% fee rebate on most fees. For companies: Rs 8,000 (application) + Rs 20,000 (examination). Professional (patent attorney) fees range from Rs 15,000-50,000 depending on complexity.
How long does it take to get a patent in India?
Standard processing takes 3-5 years from filing. Expedited examination is available for startups (12-18 months), female applicants, MSMEs, and applicants with corresponding applications in other countries. First examination report typically comes within 1-3 years.
What is a prior art search?
A prior art search examines existing patents, publications, and public disclosures to determine if your invention is truly novel. It is strongly recommended before filing a patent application. A thorough prior art search can save significant time and cost by identifying potential obstacles early.
What is the IPC Classification?
The International Patent Classification (IPC) is a hierarchical system that categorizes all technology areas into 8 sections (A-H), further divided into classes, subclasses, and groups. It is used worldwide by patent offices to classify and search patent documents. Correct IPC classification helps in targeted patent searches.
Can I file a provisional patent in India?
Yes, India allows provisional patent applications. A provisional application describes the invention broadly and gives you 12 months to file the complete specification. It secures your priority date at a lower cost (Rs 1,600 for individuals vs Rs 8,000 for the complete application).

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