How does the USPTO handle citation of foreign language documents?
The USPTO has specific guidelines for citing foreign language documents. The MPEP 901.05(d) provides clear instructions:
“When citing a foreign language document that has an English language equivalent, the U.S. examiner should additionally cite the English language equivalent.”
This practice ensures clarity and accessibility of the cited references. Furthermore, the MPEP states:
“When citing a foreign language document in a rejection, the examiner should also include a translation of the relevant portion(s) of the foreign language document.”
By providing both the original citation and its translation, the USPTO maintains transparency and facilitates understanding for all parties involved in the patent process.
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