In order to file a patent application, an applicant needs to submit the application form, including a description, claims, drawings (if necessary), and an abstract.   It is important that the application form be written in Japanese, including the name and address that requires to be translated into Japanese katakana characters. Similarly, other elements of the patent application should also be written in Japanese.   However, if the stipulated formal requirements are followed, an applicant can initially submit the description, claims, drawings (if necessary), and an abstract in any language. Under this scenario, it’s required of the applicant to submit the Japanese translations of those documents within one year and four months from the earlier of the two dates. These dates are the filing date or the priority date (in case it is applicable).   If the applicant fails to do so, he/she is notified of that effect and they can submit it within two months from the date of the Japan Patent Office’s (JPO) mailing of the notice. Otherwise, the patent application is deemed to have been withdrawn.   However, there is a condition stipulated as per the JPO – the applicant can submit the translations within two months after the date on which the justifiable reason ceased to exist, if it is done within one year after the two-month period. The applicant needs to submit a Statement of Reasons for restoration highlighting the justifiable reason.   When all requirements are met, “the country’s patent office accords as the filing date of your patent application the date on which it received the application form” unless it falls under the below-mentioned circumstances:

• When the application excludes an indication of your intention to obtain a patent;
• When the application excludes certain data such as your name as an applicant;
• When the application excludes description.
• Under these scenarios, the applicant is invited to rectify the application within a specified period.