How does the USPTO handle non-Latin character patent documents?

The USPTO has specific guidelines for handling non-Latin character patent documents. The MPEP states:

“In citing a document published by a foreign patent office, identify the foreign country or WIPO by the two-letter code (WIPO Standard ST.3) before the first document number.“

For non-Latin character documents:

• The country code helps identify the origin, regardless of the script used
• English translations or transliterations may be provided when available
• Examiners may rely on machine translations for initial screening

This approach ensures that important prior art is not overlooked due to language barriers.

To learn more:

• Non-Latin patents
• USPTO handling
• Patent translations