Protecting intellectual property is essential for safeguarding innovation. The patent prequalification service provided by the Shanghai Intellectual Property Protection Center (SIPPC) has reduced the average approval period for invention patents from 2-3 years to just 3-6 months.

This free service empowers innovators to maintain a competitive edge and supports their growth. Here are some frequently asked questions about how this service accelerates patent approval:

Q1: What is patent prequalification?

A: Patent prequalification is a step in the fast-track patent examination process. It involves a preliminary review before applying to the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).

Applications that pass this prequalification can enter CNIPA's fast-track examination, significantly shortening the review timeline. For invention patents, this service can reduce the approval period to just 3-6 months.

Q2: How can enterprises access the patent prequalification service?

A: SIPPC offers the patent prequalification service, focusing on new materials and energy conservation/environmental protection sectors as well as certain AI-related International Patent Classification (IPC) codes.

Eligible enterprises and public institutions based in Shanghai can register as entities after a review. Once registered, they can apply for fast-track patent prequalification through SIPPC. As of July 2025, 4,388 entities have been registered.

Q3: How to become a registered entity with SIPPC?

A: Eligible enterprises and institutions based in Shanghai should register via the Government Online-Offline Shanghai platform, the sole channel for SIPPC's patent prequalification service.

Applicants should use the platform's "Patent Prequalification Service Innovator Registration" section to make an application. After review by SIPPC and approval by CNIPA, entities will receive a notification via both SMS and on the platform. SIPPC also regularly updates the list of registered entities.

Q4: How to submit a prequalification request?

A: Once registered, enterprises can submit a prequalification application through the "Patent Prequalification Service" section on the Government Online-Offline Shanghai platform.

After passing SIPPC's prequalification, they can formally submit their patent application to CNIPA and pay online. On the same day, they should upload the application number and payment receipt through the "Verification of Qualification for Faster Patent Examination" section to complete the process.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission

Note: The above content is for reference only. In case of any discrepancies, the Chinese version shall prevail.