Legal Alert: Fast-Track Patent Examination for Female Inventors in Israel

The Israel Patent Authority has announced a new procedural update regarding patent applications filed by female inventors. Effective immediately, applications where at least 50% of the inventors are women will be eligible for an expedited “in-situ” examination, in accordance with Section 19a(a) of the Patents Law of 5777-1967. This accelerates the review process, enabling innovators to obtain patents more quickly.

This initiative aims to encourage greater participation of women in the innovation sector and to improve the efficiency of the patent examination process. To qualify for the fast-track examination, applicants must submit a motivated request along with a sworn declaration confirming compliance with the law’s requirements.

The Patent Authority will provide a notice of deficiencies within three months of the later of two key dates: the payment of the second part of the examination fee or the response to the Patent Authority’s request for clarification under Section 18 of the Patents Law. The notice will be issued in Hebrew, though applicants may request it in English.

This service is available not only for new patent applications but also for previously filed applications, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

This update marks an important step forward in promoting gender equality in the field of intellectual property. For more information or assistance with filing, please contact the Israel Patent Authority or our team.