What is the deadline for national phase entry in Canada?

In Canada it is possible to enter the national phase of an international (PCT) patent application at any time up to 42 months from the earliest priority date for a priority application filed in accordance with the Paris Convention.  However, additional “late fees” must be paid if the request for national phase entry is filed more than 30 months from the earliest priority date, so it is advisable to proceed with national phase entry in good time before the 30 month deadline.

Nonetheless, “late entry” into the national phase in Canada provides a useful option where an applicant needs more time to decide whether to pursue patent protection for their invention in Canada.

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