Singapore’s Intellectual Property Office has recently introduced a refined patent acceleration scheme known as SG Patents Fast, launched on 20 May 2025. This new scheme replaces the previous SG IP Fast pilot, which concluded at the end of 2024. The updated approach focuses not on speeding up the final grant, but rather on advancing specific milestones during the prosecution phase, offering inventors and businesses more control and predictability.
SG Patents Fast Designed with Applicant Needs in Mind
The SG Patents Fast was developed based on applicant feedback. It aims to improve efficiency by providing quicker turnaround times for examination without pushing for a complete fast-track grant. This type of flexibility ensures that patent applicants retain their options for future filings in other countries while benefiting from faster updates from IPOS.
Unlike the earlier pilot programme, SG Patents Fast relaxes certain formalities:
- It is no longer necessary for the first filing to be made in Singapore.
- Applicants are not asked to justify why they want acceleration.
- A simple declaration identifying the invention’s technical field is enough to qualify.
These changes make the process more accessible for a wider range of applicants, including startups and independent innovators.
Two Acceleration Tracks Available
The programme offers two clear pathways for applicants, depending on their timeline and budget:
SG Patents Fast 4
- First office action issued within 4 months
- Extra fees applicable:a.S$1,800 for combined search and examinationb. S$1,200 for examination alone
SG Patents Fast 8
- First office action issued within 8 months
- Extra fees applicable:a.S$900 for combined search and examinationb.S$600 for examination alone
These fees are additional to the standard official charges associated with filing.
Option to Accelerate Further Office Actions
Applicants already enrolled in SG Patents Fast may also request faster responses to subsequent office actions.
- Turnaround within 4 months
- Extra fee: S$150 per request (Form PF13A)
If no fee is paid at this stage, the application proceeds along the regular timeline.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for SG Patents Fast:
- The patent application must not be a divisional.
- It must contain no more than 20 claims.
- The request for acceleration must be filed at the same time as Form PF11 (combined search and exam) or Form PF12 (exam only).
Monthly Cap Per Applicant
Each applicant or corporate entity is allowed up to five acceleration requests per calendar month under SG Patents Fast 4 or Fast 8. However, there is no limit on the number of requests to expedite additional office actions.
Bringing Predictability to the Patent Journey
SG Patents Fast marks a practical shift in how patent prosecution is managed in Singapore. By targeting specific steps for acceleration and allowing greater procedural flexibility, the system is now better aligned with the evolving needs of the innovation community. This approach fosters a more responsive and applicant-friendly environment while maintaining Singapore’s reputation for strong and efficient IP protection.