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Patentability Search in Hong Kong

Conduct a search through patent databases, identifying potential conflicts and verifying uniqueness. This stage offers a secure way to R&D, thus helping to avoid legal issues

From
$350

Conduct a search through patent databases, identifying potential conflicts and verifying uniqueness. This stage offers a secure way to R&D, thus helping to avoid legal issues

ai
AI assistant
Free global trademark and patent searches, easy task creating and more
globus
Local IP Attorneys
More than 800 IP law firms from 180+ countries, ranking and reviews
security
Guaranteed Security
Flat fees, secure and fast online payments with guaranteed results
file
Fully Online
24/7 registration and case data access with auto-sync to the patent offices
How it works
1
Within minutes, create a request with an AI assistant and receive offers from dozens of local IP attorneys
2
Review offers, compare them, and select the most suitable option. Complete your transaction securely
3
Stay informed on the progress and communicate with your attorney through the platform until the process is complete
Patentability Search in Hong Kong
From $350
  1. An AI-powered IP assistant that helps you create a detailed assignment within minutes.

  2. Selection of the most suitable local patent attorney based on specific criteria.

  3. Conducting a search through patent databases, identifying potential conflicts and determining a strategy.

  4. Online monitoring and reporting on the platform throughout the entire process.

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Why iPNOTE?
  • More than 800 IP law firms from 150+ countries, ranking and reviews

  • An AI-powered IP assistant that helps create tasks and find relevant attorneys

  • Flat fees, secure and fast online payments with guaranteed results

  • 24/7 access to the registration process and online data storage for all your cases

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Testimonials
Chris
Raylightenergy, China
Wow, what a great service and you will find that the providers are much cheaper than goig direct. All the attorneys are screened and verified so no need to wonder if you are buying a legitimate service. Have used twice so far and will use it again.
Maria
Sherridge, UK
At a glance iPNOTE is a platform designed for professionals. But at the same time they have so helpful customer support that got me through all stages literally by hand. Being client oriented is a relic feature for modern digital services that trying to automate almost each step.
Jeffrey
Tyan Group LLC, USA
First time going through them and they did not disappoint! I got my trademarked filed right away, and Ian clearly explained everything to me! Great service and fair price!! Plan on using them again!
Hayk
IMAST, USA
Thanks for the excellent service. I managed to register my trademark swiftly and without unnecessary hassle.
Anton
Practico, USA
Great service, thank you! I didn't understand the trademark registration process at all and just want someone to do this job for me. They did it, I'm happy!
Maria
s16vc, USA
Amazing service! I needed to register a trademark in multiple jurisdictions and IP Note helped me. Reliable, fast and transparent process, easy communication with patent attorneys all over the world. Highly recommended.
Tamila
Besample, USA
Easy and fast to onboard, many useful insights. Definitely will continue to use it.
Andrey
Biomicrogels Group, UK
User-friendly app with great functionality and design! All necessary information about IP in one place. In addition to information about patents, there is the ability to set reminders and tasks, track progress, and communicate directly with service providers. And yes, the marketplace is an excellent opportunity to save a significant part of IP budget!
Mikita
BRASK, UAE
I liked working with the Ipnote. Clear, convenient process of finding contractors + there is constant support from the service itself on many issues. We were able to file trademark applications in the USA quickly. Now we will continue in other countries, using the help of the service.
Dmitry
Nucular, Hong Kong
Very professional and fast work. We recommend this company for trademark registration.
Anton
Insense, USA
Very convenient service that helped us register our trademark in a few days. I want to mention the help of the CX team and especially Alex. They helped me and were always in touch. We will use it for registration in other countries.
Alex
Epic Web3, Portugal
Great experience! Applied for a trade mark registration in US and EU for a reasonable price
Alexandr
TMARK, Moldova
We ordered work in more than 10 countries for trademarks and patents, it is very convenient that everything is visible in one dashboard and fast secure payments. Lawyers often offer advice and best solutions for free, which helps a lot when you are not sure what needs to be done and how to do it cheaper. Excellent service I recommend as a patent attorney with 15 years of experience!
Ruben
DIGITORIUM, Spain
iPNOTE is a fantastic platform that allows you to easily extend your IP agent network around the world to better serve your customers. In addition, any need is quickly solved by their support service. I highly recommend it
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a patentability search?
A patentability search is an investigation to determine whether an invention is new and inventive by reviewing existing patents and publicly available information. It helps assess if an invention meets the criteria for patent protection.
Is a patentability search required before filing a patent in Hong Kong?
No, it is not legally required. However, it is highly recommended to reduce the risk of rejection during examination and avoid wasting time and resources on unpatentable inventions.
Who should conduct a patentability search in Hong Kong?
Inventors, businesses, or their patent attorneys can conduct the search. While individuals can use free databases, professionals are better equipped to conduct thorough and accurate analyses.
Which databases can I use to perform a patentability search?
Commonly used databases include WIPO’s PATENTSCOPE, Espacenet by the European Patent Office, CNIPA’s Chinese patent database, and Google Patents. Although Hong Kong does not have its own searchable database, global tools are suitable.
What information is needed to conduct a patentability search?
You should have a clear and detailed understanding of the invention, including its technical features, purpose, and potential applications. Keywords, technical terms, and classification codes are useful for searching.
How long does a typical patentability search take?
A basic search can take a few hours, but a detailed and professional patentability assessment may require several days, depending on the complexity of the invention.
What happens if similar prior art is found?
If similar prior art exists, you may need to modify your invention or claims, or decide not to proceed with the application. The search helps you make informed strategic decisions early on.
Is the result of a patentability search in Hong Kong legally binding?
No, the results are not binding. They are meant to guide the applicant but do not guarantee the outcome of the formal examination by the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department.
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Understanding Patentability Search in Hong Kong: A Strategic Guide

 

When considering filing intellectual property rights, one of the most crucial early steps is conducting a patent search. This process helps innovators determine whether their invention is new and non-obvious compared to existing technologies. A thorough examination increases the chances of success in the registration process, saves valuable time, and prevents unnecessary costs. In a competitive and IP-conscious environment, this strategic step is especially important for any company planning to bring new products or solutions to market.

Why Patentability Search Matters

A novelty assessment evaluates the uniqueness and originality of an idea or technical solution. This involves checking databases and innovation records to identify prior art — existing developments or publications that might affect registrability.

In Hong Kong, where the legal framework aligns closely with international norms, failing to perform a comprehensive investigation can result in costly rejections. For entrepreneurs, researchers, or corporations, this early step is not only a best practice but also a way to reduce legal and financial risks.

Main goals of such a review:

  • Verifying whether the technical concept has already been disclosed
  • Understanding the level of protection that might be granted
  • Avoiding overlap with existing exclusive rights
  • Informing filing strategies, including whether to proceed with a provisional or standard application

Types of Patent Applications

Before delving further into the search, it’s essential to understand the types of protection available:

1. Standard (O): This route requires first filing in designated patent offices (e.g., China, UK, EPO), and then registering. It provides long-term protection.

2. Standard (R): Introduced in December 2019, this route allows direct filing and examination by the local Intellectual Property Department (IPD).

3. Short-term Protection: Offers quicker and simpler rights for innovations with a shorter commercial life.

The type of registration you plan to pursue influences the scope and depth of the review process.

How to Conduct a Patentability Search in Hong Kong

To achieve meaningful results, follow a structured approach. The complexity of IP due diligence often requires both technical insight and legal expertise.

Key steps:

1. Define the invention precisely

2. Identify relevant keywords and technical terms

3. Use global and local tools for reviewing existing disclosures

4. Evaluate similar technical solutions and publications

5. Consult with a qualified intellectual property attorney

While some tools are available online, local guidance is invaluable. A reputable IP consultancy or specialist will understand regional nuances and procedural subtleties. Even for those with internal R&D teams, external verification is recommended.

Tools and Resources for Patent Search

Exploring multiple databases ensures more reliable outcomes. Key resources include:

  • Espacenet 
  • CNIPA (for Chinese intellectual property data)
  • USPTO (for U.S. records)
  • WIPO PATENTSCOPE
  • Hong Kong IPD record system

Engaging a local legal expert can help uncover less obvious earlier disclosures, especially in non-English documents or region-specific filings.

When Should You Conduct a Patentability Search?

Timing matters. An evaluation should be done before drafting and filing any application — especially if your business is considering entering multiple markets or developing a broader IP portfolio. This becomes even more critical when submitting an initial filing request, as it sets an early filing date that requires later formalization.

Who Should Perform the Search?

While inventors may begin preliminary investigations themselves, a professional service provider ensures a more in-depth analysis. Especially for high-value technical advancements or those in competitive sectors like biotech, fintech, or electronics, expert assistance is indispensable.

Benefits of using a professional review service:

  • Broader access to international and regional databases
  • Technical and legal interpretation of findings
  • Strategic guidance based on existing disclosures
  • Time-efficient and cost-effective insight

Checklist for a Successful Patent Search

Use this simple checklist to guide your preparation:

  •  Clearly define the technical concept
  •  Select relevant terminology and industry jargon
  •  Explore various data sources (start with patent search)
  •  Review both published records and pending filings
  •  Keep a log of findings and key references
  •  Discuss results with an IP professional
  •  Use findings to shape your filing strategy

Conclusion

A proper intellectual property review is the foundation of any strong innovation strategy in Hong Kong. It offers clarity, direction, and confidence before entering the legal and commercial landscape. By investing in a thoughtful review process — with support from a trusted firm or legal specialist — businesses and individuals can position themselves more securely in the market. Whether seeking short-term protection or pursuing long-term commercialization, beginning with a robust prior art investigation is a smart, proactive move.

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