Patent Search in India
A patent search, also known as a patentability search, looks for the things that are currently the closest to your invention by searching through published works, patents, and other publicly accessible records (also known as "prior art"). A patent can be granted if the patent examiner determines that the invention is novel and not just a clear combination of elements found in the prior art after carefully examining a patent application and comparing it to the prior art.
Served Over 8000 Startups and MSMEs
4.6/5 Google Review
A policy of 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Expert Consultation
INTRODUCTION
What does patent search entail, and how important is it?
A patent search is a crucial first step before filing a patent application. Its primary objective is to determine whether your invention is novel and distinguishable from existing technologies and prior patents.
By conducting a patent search, one can access publicly available information and previously filed patents related to the subject matter. This helps assess whether the proposed invention is patentable and whether similar or identical inventions already exist.
There are several types of patent searches, but the one conducted for filing a utility patent is known as a Patentability Search. This search identifies “prior art,” which includes all publicly available documents and previously filed patents that may be similar to your invention.
During the examination process, the Patent Office reviews the application, focusing on the originality, novelty, and technical utility of the proposed invention. A patent is granted only if all legal and technical requirements are met.
Conducting a patent search has several benefits:
It helps identify relevant prior art.
It determines the patentability of the invention.
It highlights the unique and novel aspects of the invention.
It prepares the applicant to address objections raised by the Patent Office during examination.
ADVANTAGES
Advantages of Patent Search in India
Define the Scope of Your Patent Clearly
Filing a patent involves a considerable investment of time, effort, and cost. A patent search helps you determine whether your invention is truly novel or already exists in the public domain. This saves resources by avoiding unnecessary filings and helps refine your invention before submission.
Identify and Address Potential Objections Early
After a patent is filed, the Patent Office examines it for novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. A comprehensive patent search can reveal the closest prior art, allowing you to proactively structure your patent claims and responses. By identifying these references early, you can craft strong technical distinctions to overcome future objections during examination.
Easier and Stronger Patent Drafting
A patent search supports accurate and effective drafting of the patent specification and claims. By analyzing existing patents, you can avoid overlapping with previously disclosed inventions and ensure your invention's uniqueness is clearly highlighted. This leads to a well-drafted application that strengthens your case and reduces the risk of rejection.
A LIST OF DOCUMENTS
đź“‘Documents Required for Online Registration of One Person Company (OPC) in India
To successfully register a One Person Company in India, the following documents and details are required:
1. Details of the Applicant (Director & Shareholder)
PAN Card (Mandatory)
Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport / Driving License (as ID proof)
Passport-size Photograph
Address proof (Bank statement/Electricity bill not older than 2 months)
2. Proof of Registered Office Address
Latest Utility Bill (Electricity/Water/Gas)
Rent Agreement (if rented)
NOC from the property owner (if rented)
3. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Required for signing the incorporation documents electronically.
4. Director Identification Number (DIN)
Applied through SPICe+ Form during incorporation, if not already available.
5. Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
Stating the objectives and rules of the OPC.
3 Simple Steps for a Patent Search
1. Quick & Easy Start
Choose the most suitable package.
Fill out our short questionnaire (takes just 5–10 minutes).
Upload the required documents as per the checklist.
Make payment through our secure payment gateway.
2. Expert Support at Every Step
A dedicated IP specialist is assigned to your case.
We review your inputs and clarify technical details if required.
Detailed patent search is conducted across Indian & global databases.
A professional search report is prepared and delivered to you.
3. Receive Your Comprehensive Report
You get a detailed report outlining prior art and similar inventions.
Our team explains patentability insights and next possible steps.
You’re now ready to proceed with patent drafting and filing confidently.
Patent Search Process Timeline
Days 1 – 3: Initial Review & Setup
Collection and review of your invention details.
Assignment of a dedicated patent expert.
Clarification of technical aspects if needed.
Application for Digital Signature Certificate (if needed).
Days 4 – 7: Database Analysis & Report Preparation
Detailed search conducted in Indian Patent Office, WIPO, USPTO, and other databases.
Compilation of relevant prior art and published patents.
Drafting of the patent search report with expert commentary.
Days 8 – 10: Delivery & Consultation
Final delivery of the Patent Search Report.
One-on-one session to explain results.
Guidance on patent filing strategy (if patentable).
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions before reaching out? Here are quick answers to some of the most common queries we receive about contacting us, consultations, and service inquiries.
No, conducting a patent search is not legally mandatory before applying for a patent. However, it is highly recommended. A professional patentability search helps you understand whether your invention is novel and eligible for protection, saving time, effort, and unnecessary costs during the patent registration process.
Disclosing your invention always involves a risk if shared with unverified sources, as public disclosure can jeopardize its patentability. To ensure confidentiality, always engage with a trustworthy professional or agency. It is advisable to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before sharing details. At ClassicTrademark.in, we treat your invention with the highest level of confidentiality and integrity.
If a similar invention already exists, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t apply for a patent. You may analyze the existing patent to identify potential improvements or modifications to make your version unique and patentable. A thorough search helps you identify such gaps and opportunities.
No. A patent search is not limited to granted patents. It includes all publicly available prior art, including:
Published patent applications
Scientific journals and articles
Web pages and online databases
Products and technical publications
Any public disclosure, in any form, can affect patentability.
No, a patent search only identifies existing prior art to evaluate the novelty and patentability of your invention. It does not ensure that your invention won’t infringe on others’ existing rights. For that, a Freedom to Operate (FTO) search is required, which assesses whether your product violates any active patents in the market.
Yes, you can do a preliminary search using free online databases such as:
However, patent searching involves more than just keyword queries — it requires expertise in classification systems, search strategies, and interpreting technical claims. For reliable results, professional assistance is always advisable.