Requirements for Filing Patent Applications

Patents may be filed as local applications or based on claims of priority within twelve months of the first filing elsewhere.

An application must include the following basic information:

1. Name and domicile of the applicant.

2. Name, nationality and domicile of the inventors.

3. Specifications of the invention including claims and drawings.

4. Number of the priority document.

The following may be submitted within 60 days of the application:

1. A Power of Attorney notarized and legalized through the Bolivian Consulate.

2. A Spanish translation of the patent specifications and claims.

3. If the applicant is other than the inventor, the assignment document.

4. When claiming priority, a certified copy of the priority document.

For all documents mentioned, an additional extension of 60 days may be requested.

Patents are valid for 20 years as of the filing date and in order to maintain its validity, annuities must be paid in January each year.