This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process. A stepbystep overview of a patent application and maintenance process.The five stages of a patent process. In the US and Canada, you must file your patent application within 12 months of your first public disclosure. You can incorporate all possible variations and describe everything completely in a provisional patent application. View the instructions on how to file your Canadian patent application. Circuit Court fillable forms allow you to enter information on a form while displayed in Adobe Acrobat and then print the completed form out. Discover how to file for a patent with our stepbystep guide, simplifying the process to protect your innovation. Learn the essentials now. Apply to Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Specialist and more!