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How to convert a patent application to a utility model application

You can apply for both a patent and a utility model for an invention simultaneously. It is also possible to first apply for a patent and later convert the patent application to a utility model application. Please note, however, that neither methods nor uses can be protected with a utility model.

If you convert your application, the original patent application will remain pending unless you withdraw it.

Only a pending patent application or a pending application for a European patent can be converted to a utility model application. Your application is not pending if it has been:

  • dismissed
  • rejected, or
  • withdrawn

A converted utility model application is given the same filing date as the original patent application or the original application for a European patent.

A patent application cannot be converted if ten years have passed since the filing date. Furthermore, a granted patent cannot be converted to a utility model application.

Proceed as follows

If you want to convert your patent application to a utility model application, proceed as follows:

  • Make sure your patent application is pending on the day you file the utility model application.
  • Draw up your utility model application in Finnish or Swedish based on the description, patent claims and drawings in the patent application. No abstract is needed.
  • Replace the word “patenttivaatimus” (patent claim) by the word “suojavaatimus” (claim) in Finnish, or the word “patentkrav” by the word “skyddskrav” in Swedish.
  • If the patent application contains method claims or use claims, omit them from the utility model application.
  • Do not add to the utility model application any new information that is not contained in the patent application.
  • Fill in the utility model application form in Finnish or Swedish. Tick the box “Tämä hakemus on muunnettu patenttihakemuksesta” in Finnish or “Den här ansökan har ändrats eller omvandlats från patentansökan” in Swedish (meaning, “This application has been converted from a patent application”), and give the filing date, country and number of the original patent application in the field.
  • Submit the application form, description, claims and drawings to the PRH.
  • Pay the registration fee and, if the number of claims is more than five, an additional fee for every claim exceeding five. See the fees in our price list for utility models.


Printable version Latest update 03.04.2023