News: Lightbringer raises $10 million in Series A funding

How long does a patent last?

A utility patent lasts 20 years from the filing date in virtually every country, provided maintenance or annual renewal fees are paid on schedule; a US design patent lasts 15 years from grant, and EU/UK registered designs up to 25 years. No patent can be extended once its term expires, apart from limited regulatory extensions for pharmaceuticals in some jurisdictions.