With a huge increase in the global industry, now is an ideal time to expand your business abroad. Expanding your business overseas will help you reach a new clientele base and expand your name and reputation worldwide.
However, it’s important to remember that you will require a patent to sell your invention. International patents can be difficult to acquire, requiring an incredibly accurate translation to be accepted as valid intellectual records.
This article will explore everything you need to know about properly getting your patent translations done.
What is Patent Translation?
Patent translation is the act of translating patent documentation into another language. This may sound simple enough, but to be valid, this also involves translating everything from the patent specifications to lawyers’ correspondence.
Anything used to file the patent must be translated into the native language of the country you wish to transfer the patent. As patents have a specific style of legal writing, it demands a certified translation with an experienced translator to reach the degree of accuracy you need for the translation to be valid.
Working with a professional translation company can be a great help in ensuring that all patient information is understood and accurately conveyed between medical providers and patients. Not only do these companies provide rapid turnaround times, but they also employ experienced linguists who understand the nuances of languages so that you’re certain your patient’s needs are being accurately translated.
Most people will outsource an IP specialist company for this, as they can translate the documents to a high standard.
Patent translators should be able to translate legal documents with high accuracy. Depending on what the invention that has been patented is, it will also be useful for the translator to have industry-specific knowledge. Native-speaking translators who work in the same or similar fields are often the best for these translation roles.
When Will You Need Patent Translation Services?
You will need patent translation services once you sell your invention in a different country. Patenting is important as it means you can obtain exclusive rights to your product in the country you want to launch it in, just as you have your native country.
In some cases, you won’t have to pay for translation. For example, if you come from a native English-speaking country and want to get a patent in another country (e.g. UK to the USA). This can be a good way to save time and money, especially if it’s your first time launching your invention in another country.
However, if you plan to launch your product in a country that doesn’t speak your native language, you will need to get the patent information translated into the native language of that country. A good way to save money here is to pick a region that uses one language; for example, if you have your documents translated into Arabic, you could cover numerous countries with only one translation needed.
Similarly, picking major languages such as Spanish or French could make for easier applications, as they are more widely spoken across different countries. This could be a great way to give your company an international advantage.
Why Do You Need A Patent Translator?
You will need to hire a patent translator if you speak the language you want to translate to fluidly and understand the legalese of the documents thoroughly. This is because getting the translation wrong can result in things such as:
- Idea theft
- Major delays to your project
- Extra expenses/financial loss
- Increase competition
- Ineligibility to receive patent protection
If the patent is correctly translated, it can be accepted, resulting in major delays and allowing other companies to swoop in and take your idea.
Is A Patent Translation Worth The Money?
In short, yes.
A patent translation will always be worth the money as the benefit of having a smooth application process will prevent unnecessary spending. If your application is rejected, you will have to reapply and pay a range of other fees that can add up to far more than the initial translation.
As with most things in business, it is better to invest in getting it right the first time rather than going through a long, expensive process to get it approved finally.
How Do I Know What I Need For A Patent Application?
To find out what the country you want a patent in requires for their application, you should check their government website. Most countries will have detailed guidelines online to show you what you will need to have translated and prepared for your application.
To Conclude,
If you are ready to take your product to a new country, ensure you get an accurate patent translation. It can save you money in the long run, as if your initial application is rejected, you may spend more money to redo it.
Hiring a translator who speaks the country’s native language is the best way to get your patent approval internationally.
