Special measures for those affected by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake

April 18, 2016

Japan Patent Office

We would like to offer our deepest condolences to the residents of districts hit by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake.

The Japan Patent Office (JPO) provides a summary of special measures such as handling of procedures for those who are affected by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake.

Handling of Procedures, and Procedure Consultation Service

For those who are unable to go through procedures for patent, utility model, design or trademark applications, etc. within a prescribed period, there are special measures prepared as follows.

• Handling of Procedures Affected by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake
  ^※Additional matters are added to "(1) Designated time limit." (Updated on April 25)
  ^※Additional matters are added to "(1) Designated time limit." (Updated on April 20)
  ^※Additional matters are added to the procedures to which relief measures can be applied after the lapse of the designated period (updated on April 19).

For those who have any questions about the procedures, a special consultation service is established within the JPO.

• Establishment of Procedure Consultation Service for the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake

Please make use of these resources as well.

For your information: Alternative Service for Comprehensive Support Service for Intellectual Property in Kumamoto Prefecture

The quake-hit Comprehensive Support Service for Intellectual Property in Kumamoto Prefecture suspended service operation temporarily due to restoration work, but resumed it on April 26, 2016 (Tue.).

[Last updated 28 April 2016]