Patent protection in Burundi is obtained via filing an application with the Burundi Industrial Property Office. The invention must fulfill novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability to be patentable.
• Patent rights are granted for 20 years from the filing date, provided annual maintenance fees are paid.
• Applicants must submit a detailed specification and claims that fully disclose the invention.
• A substantive exam is carried out to ensure the invention meets patentability criteria.
• Burundi’s participation in the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) enables foreign applicants to seek patent protection through the international filing system.
Once granted, a patent in Burundi confers exclusive rights to make, use, or sell the invention, enforceable through civil remedies in case of infringement.