All of the International Searching Authorities have increased their PCT search fees within the past two months. Under the Patent Cooperation Treaty, certain patent offices act as International Searching Authorities by performing searches for patent applications filed pursuant to the PCT.
IP Australia increased its search fees effective September 15, 2009. The fee for obtaining a search in Australia is now $1,278. The Korean Intellectual Property Office also increased fees on September 15, 2009, with the fee for a search now being $729.
The European Patent Office increased its search fee effective October 1, 2009. The fee for obtaining a European search is now $2,378.
The United States likewise increased its search fee effective October 1, 2009. The fee is now $2,080.
