What are the benefits of requesting a Supplementary International Search?

Requesting a Supplementary International Search (SIS) offers several benefits to PCT applicants:

1. Reduced risk of new prior art: As stated in the MPEP, Requesting supplementary international search reduces the risk of new prior art being cited in the national phase.
2. Expanded linguistic and technical scope: The MPEP notes, Requesting one or more supplementary international searches, during this early phase of the patent prosecution, expands both the linguistic and technical scope of the search.
3. Strategic national phase entry: It may also be possible to have the supplementary search carried out in a State where an applicant is likely to enter the national phase later on.
4. Early identification of relevant prior art: SIS allows applicants to identify potentially relevant prior art early in the patent prosecution process, enabling informed decisions about continuing the application or modifying claims.

These benefits help applicants make more informed decisions about their patent strategy and potentially save time and resources in the long run.

To learn more:

• Supplementary International Search
• SIS
• PCT
• International Patent Application
• Prior Art Search