How Much Does a Chinese Patent Translation Really Cost in 2025?

Patent translation is a highly specialized and technical service that requires translators to possess in-depth knowledge of the relevant field and expertise in technical terminology.  Patent translation pricing is not fixed but varies based on several key factors, including the language pair, quality tier, patent type, and translator qualifications.

1. Pricing Models and Typical Rates

a. Per-Character Pricing

For detailed documents such as specifications, drawings, abstracts, or claims, we typically charge based on character count. For example, the translation rate for Chinese-English patent documents ranges from RMB 180–400 per 1,000 Chinese characters.

(Note: 1,000 Chinese characters ≈ 1,500–1,800 English words, depending on content density.)

b. Per-Page/Per-Document Pricing

For concise documents like certificates or licenses, we may charge based on page count or per document. For instance, the translation fee for a Chinese-English patent certificate is approximately RMB 120–200 per copy.

c. Workload-Based Pricing

For complex localization projects involving images, charts, and substantial text, we calculate fees based on actual translation effort, formatting requirements, or technical support needs.

2. Key Factors Influencing Pricing (2024 Update)

Per-Word Pricing

Standard Patents: For patents in relatively common technical fields (e.g., simple utility models or general inventions with moderate technical jargon), the rate for Chinese-English translation typically ranges from RMB 150–300 per 1,000 characters.

High-Complexity Fields: For patents in cutting-edge areas like biotechnology, semiconductors, or AI, where technical jargon is dense and complexity is high, fees can reach RMB 300–500+ per 1,000 characters.

Per-Page Pricing

Chinese Patent Specifications: When charging per page, the translation cost for Chinese patent specifications averages RMB 200–500 per page (based on original Chinese layout). Documents with dense technical content or specialized terminology tend to lean toward the higher end.

PCT/Foreign Patents: For translations from foreign languages, PCT or foreign patents are priced at RMB 300–600 per page. Higher costs arise from formatting adjustments, cultural adaptations, and technical nuances.

Additional Fees

Formatting/Typesetting: If clients require translated documents to retain the original layout, an additional fee of RMB 50–200 per page may apply. Complex elements like charts, tables, or formulas increase formatting costs.

Professional Proofreading: To ensure accuracy, proofreading is essential. Fees typically range from RMB 50–100 per 1,000 characters. High-stakes documentsmay undergo multiple rounds of review, raising costs.

3.Why Choose Artlangs Translation?

Certified by the Translators Association of China (TAC)

American Translators Association (ATA) Accreditation

ISO 9001: Quality Management System Certification

ISO 27001: Information Security Management Certification

ISO 13485: Medical Device Translation Certification