Americas

Panama

Patent system, trademark registration, annuity management, and renewals in Panama.

Authority

DIGERPI

PCT

30 mo

Madrid

Non-member

DIGERPI Search

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Before You Start

Before filing or quoting, you'll typically confirm these first

1
Whether to pursue the Paris route, PCT national phase, or start with trademark registration in Panama
2
Which of patent filing, trademark registration, annuity, or renewal is the most urgent priority
3
Whether to verify the official portal, search system, and key deadlines before moving to a quote or engagement

The sections below cover each module — use the navigation to jump directly to what you need.

Patent System & Process

Patent System in Panama

Panama is a major trade and financial hub; the Canal attracts many multinational companies. IP managed by DIGERPI. 20-year patents; PCT national phase **30 months** (shorter than standard 31 months — note carefully). **NOT a Madrid member** — trademarks must be filed directly.

Panamanian Patent System ▾

DIGERPI examination; 20-year patents; 10-year utility models. PCT deadline is **30 months** — note carefully. Spanish required.

Source: DIGERPI; WIPO PCT Guide — PA

Trademark System & Process

Trademark System in Panama

Panamanian trademarks examined by DIGERPI; 10-year term; renewable. Direct filing required; Madrid NOT available.

Trademark Application ▾

Direct DIGERPI filing in Spanish; 10-year term. Madrid NOT available.

Source: DIGERPI

Patent Annuity

Panama Patent Annuities

Annual annuities; grace period.

Source: DIGERPI fee schedule

Annuity Reference → Managed Annuities

Trademark Renewal

Panama Trademark Renewals

10-year trademark; renew before expiry; grace period.

Source: DIGERPI

Renewal Reference → Managed Renewals

FAQ

Common Questions — Panama IP

What is the PCT deadline for Panama? ▾

Panama's PCT national phase deadline is **30 months** — shorter than the standard 31 months. Pay special attention.

Is Panama a Madrid Protocol member? ▾

No. Direct national filing with DIGERPI required.

What language is required? ▾

Spanish.

Does Panama have utility model protection? ▾

Yes, 10-year term; no substantive examination.

Why is IP protection important in Panama as a trade hub? ▾

The Panama Canal and Colón Free Trade Zone attract significant goods transit and trade; trademark protection is especially important to combat counterfeit goods.

Is there a trademark use requirement in Panama? ▾

Yes, non-use within 5 years may lead to revocation.

Is a local agent required in Panama? ▾

Foreign applicants must use a locally registered agent at DIGERPI.

Is Panama a WTO member? ▾

Yes, Panama joined WTO in 1997.

Official Reference Sources

Sources for This Page

DIGERPI Official Website www.digerpi.gob.pa WIPO — Panama www.wipo.int/members/en/details.jsp?country_id=130

Content based on official sources above, last reviewed: 2026-04. In case of discrepancy with the latest official publications, official sources prevail.

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