Patent protection is attainable by filing directly under São Tomé and Príncipe’s national framework. Patentable inventions must demonstrate novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
The standard patent term is 20 years from the filing date, subject to yearly maintenance fees.
Applicants submit a specification, claims, and relevant documentation describing the invention thoroughly.
As São Tomé and Príncipeis a PCT contracting state, foreign applicants may enter the national phase after an international filing.
A substantive examination ensures eligibility under local patent criteria.
Upon grant, the patent holder gains exclusive rights to exploit the invention in São Tomé and Príncipe, with potential legal actions to address infringement.