Bahamas - The Bahamas accedes to the PCT
The Bahamas has deposited its instrument of accession to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) on 19 May 2026 and will be bound by the Treaty from 19 August 2026, so becoming the 159th Contracting State to the PCT.
From 19 August 2026, applicants and inventors in The Bahamas will be able to file international patent applications under the PCT, providing a streamlined route to seek protection across all PCT Contracting States. Equally, foreign applicants will be able to designate The Bahamas when filing PCT applications, enabling them to pursue patent protection for their inventions within the jurisdiction.
As previously reported on our website, new IP laws came into effect in the Bahamas on 1 February 2025, and the new Patent Law contemplated the implementation of the PCT. Therefore, the accession announced above was entirely expected, although we now await clarification of the practical considerations of national phase entry (documentary requirements, deadlines, etc.). We will post any such further details as and when they become available.
Key actions for applicants
Consider filing strategies: Bahamian applicants should evaluate whether using the PCT route could support broader international protection strategies.
Review regional coverage: Foreign applicants may wish to assess the inclusion of The Bahamas in their PCT designations for Caribbean protection.
Plan national phase entries: Applicants with future PCT applications should consider whether entry into the national phase in The Bahamas aligns with their commercial objectives.
Budget accordingly: Take into account timing and costs associated with potential national phase filings in The Bahamas post-19 August 2026.
Seek tailored advice: Engage with us here at Lysaght to ensure filing strategies are aligned with business goals and take full advantage of the expanded PCT coverage.
