SEP 19 2025
Deferring Examination Requests without payment up to almost 5 years (58 months)
[Korean Patent Article 40-3 (Deferment of Examination)]
The Examination Fee Deferral for Up to 58 Months. When filing the examination request, a deferral of the examination fee payment can be simultaneously requested. This payment can be deferred for an additional 22 months from the date the examination was requested. The fee amount is locked in based on the fee schedule effective on the date the examination was initially requested (even though payment is made much later).
Practical Effect
The start of examination can be effectively deferred for up to 5 years (60 months) from the filing date, achieved by requesting examination at the 36-month deadline and electing the full 24-month deferral. This strategy allows applicants to delay costs and make more informed decisions on pursuing examination for applications not immediately critical to their business.
