Why trust the PRH?
The PRH carries out patentability searches for patent applications. The quality of the work is continuously monitored and developed. The searches support decision-making and help assess when and to what extent it is reasonable to proceed with patenting.
More than 100 examiners work at the PRH, covering a wide range of technical fields. The searches are based on extensive domestic and international databases.
The patenting process can be started with a national Finnish application even when the aim is to obtain patent protection abroad.
Quality and operating principles
The patent application processing procedure is certified according to ISO 9001:2015. The certification covers the search and processing procedure and is assessed through annual independent audits.
•External auditor’s audit report 2025
•Certificate. Check out the certificate
Our operations are based on fairness, impartiality and openness. Services take customers’ needs into account equally.
•PRH quality policy. Read more about our quality policy and quality indicators
Expertise and tools
Patent applications are handled by more than 100 highly educated examiners, many of whom also hold a postgraduate degree.
A wide range of patent databases and other specialized databases are used in searches.
Where necessary, the specific features of legislation in other countries are also taken into account.
Services
Among others, the PRH offers:
- patentability and novelty searches at different stages of development. Read more about our search services.
- advisory services related to patenting. Read more about our advisory services.
- the possibility for accelerated national application processing. Read more about the fast-track.
- the possibility for accelerated processing under the PPH system. Read more about the PPH.
- searches for international PCT applications. Read more.
- application processing in Finnish, Swedish and English
- electronic patent filing. Read more about online filing.
- free patent databases. Read more about databases.
- training and lectures. Contact us.
Route for international patenting
A Finnish patent application is a cost-effective way to start international patenting.
Based on the search carried out for a national application, it is easier to assess the possibilities, scope and potential amendments for international patenting before proceeding abroad. A national application can be filed directly in English.
International PCT applications can also be filed through the PRH. The PCT procedure allows the decision on the designated countries to be postponed by up to 2.5 years. Accelerated processing under the PPH system is also available in the PPH contracting states.