What are the requirements for submitting replacement sheets when amending PCT applications?
When amending PCT applications, there are specific requirements for submitting replacement sheets. According to the MPEP:
“When amendments to the description or drawings are made under PCT Rule 66.8, the applicant shall be required to submit a replacement sheet for every sheet of the international application which, on account of an amendment, differs from the sheet previously filed. The replacement sheet or sheets shall be accompanied by a letter which shall draw attention to the differences between the replaced sheets and the replacement sheets, shall indicate the basis for the amendment in the application as filed and shall preferably also explain the reasons for the amendment.“
For claim amendments, the MPEP states:
“When amendments to the claims are made under PCT Rule 66.8, the applicant shall be required to submit a replacement sheet or sheets containing a complete set of claims in replacement of all the claims originally filed or previously amended under Articles 19 or 34, as the case may be.“
The replacement sheets must be accompanied by a letter explaining the changes and their basis in the original application.
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