Comprehensive Guide to Patent Official Fees in China (2025)

When filing for a patent in China, understanding the official fees (government fees) and their payment schedules is essential. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the fees associated with different types of patents in China, including invention patents, utility models, and design patents. We’ll also explore fee reductions, payment deadlines, and best practices for managing these costs effectively.

Attention: Failing to comply with patent fee requirements can result in the loss of valuable IP rights.

What Are Patent Official Fees?

Patent official fees are the charges set by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) for processing patent applications and maintaining granted patents. These fees cover various stages of the patent lifecycle, including filing, examination, granting, and maintenance.

Key Types of Patent Fees in China

1. Application Fees: Paid when filing a patent application.
2. Examination Fees: Applicable to invention patents during substantive examination.
3. Reexamination Fees: Charged when requesting a reexamination for a rejection.
4. Registration Fees: Due upon the granting of the patent.
5. Maintenance Fees: Annual fees are required to keep a patent valid.
6. Invalidation Fees: Applicable when filing a request to invalidate a granted patent.
7. Other Miscellaneous Fees: Fees for extensions, restorations, or changes to patent details.

Government Fee Schedule for 2025

Download the schedule here.

Currency: CNY. Click here to check the exchange rate.

Application

Examination

Reexamination

Registration

The annuity of the grant year (see the table below).

Maintenance Fees (Annual Fees)

Invalidation

Miscellaneous

Fee Reductions and Discounts

Eligible applicants can apply for significant fee reductions, making patent protection more accessible to individuals and small businesses.

Applicable Fees for Reduction

• Application fees (excluding publication and additional filing fees)
• Substantive examination fees (invention patents only)
• Annual maintenance fees (up to ten years post-grant)
• Reexamination fees

Eligibility Criteria

• Individuals: Annual income below CNY 60,000 may qualify for an 85% reduction.
• Small Enterprises: Taxable income below CNY 1 million in the previous year may receive a 85% reduction.

Note: 75% discount for two applicants who both meet the above qualifications.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following supporting documentation to prove eligibility:

• For legal entities:
  • Sealed copy of business license;
  • Tax return for the previous entire year. (Note: If the company is incorporated in the current year, the tax return is not required)

• For individuals
  • Signed copy of ID proof;
  • Bank statements;
  • Certificate of CN social insurance;
  • Income certificates given by his/ her employer.

Note: CNIPA does not restrict the eligibility of foreign applicants. However, in practice, unless they operate, work, or study in China, they cannot provide recognized proof of income from China, which means it is impossible to enjoy the reduction.

Deadlines of payment

Deadlines and Consequences for Not Paying Annual Fees

Pay late fees

If the annual fees are not paid within six months from the due date, late fees (5-25%) will be charged;

Pay restoration fees

If over six months and within two months from receiving the “Notice of Termination of Patent”, restoration fees of 1000 CNY and the late fees (25%) will be charged.

Lose the patent

If over two months from receiving the “Notice of Termination of Patent”, the patent will be lost completely.

How to Pay Patent Fees in China

Online Payment

Patent fees can be checked and paid conveniently through CNIPA’s online portal. Ensure accurate details are provided to avoid payment errors.

Currently, the system supports WeChat payment and bank transfers.

Refund Policy

Generally, patent fees are non-refundable unless a payment error is proven.

Best Practices for Managing Patent Fees

1. Set Reminders: CNIPA does not send annual fee reminders unless you’re one month overdue. Using a calendar or engaging a patent management service is strongly recommended, especially in multiple countries.
2. Track Reductions: Monitor changes in income or business status to qualify for fee reductions, but this tip doesn’t apply to foreign applicants.
3. Hire Professionals: Engaging an experienced patent attorney or agent to estimate all the patent fees in advance.

Further Information

Read more about the trademark fees in China.

Need Help Navigating China’s Patent Fees?

Our team of experienced intellectual property attorneys can assist with fee management, filing, and compliance. Contact us today for professional guidance.