The options for search and examination of any patent application in Singapore are complicated. The summary below is to some extent a simplified version of the options available! Generally, unless there is any specific option an applicant wishes to adopt on a particular case, we will advise on what we feel is the best option in the circumstances.
With recent amendments to Singapore Patents Act and Rules, a “two-track” examination system for Singapore patent applications was introduced. By default, a patent application proceeds via the “fast track”. An overview of this option is illustrated as a flowchart in Annex A. Alternatively, it is possible to prosecute a patent application by the “slow-track” by paying a block extension fee by 39 months from the filing or priority (if claimed), in which deadlines are extended.