What are the time limits for withdrawing a demand or election in a PCT application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 4 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. According to MPEP 1880 , which cites PCT Rule 90bis.4(a), the time limit for withdrawing a demand or election in a PCT application is as follows: The applicant may withdraw the demand or any or all elections at any time prior to the expiration of 30 months from the priority date. This 30-month period provides applicants with flexibility to make strategic decisions about their international patent applications up until the point where they would typically enter the national phase in most countries. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Applicant May Withdraw Any Elections MPEP 1880 Permitted Applicant Can Withdraw Demand Before Priority Date Expiration MPEP 1880 Permitted Demand Considered Withdrawn If All States Withdraw Election MPEP 1880 Required Withdrawal Must Be Signed by All Applicants MPEP 1880 Required Notice of Withdrawal Required Upon Receipt by International Bureau MPEP 1880 Required International Preliminary Authority Must Mark and Forward Withdrawal Notice MPEP 1880 Required Date Marked on Notice Is Considered for International Bureau MPEP 1880 Required IPEA Cancels Unbound State Elections Ex Officio MPEP 1880 Required Electoral Election Cancelled Ex Officio By IPEA MPEP 1880 Required Requirement for Separate Power of Attorney in Withdrawal Cases MPEP 1880 Prohibited Other Related FAQs 4 FAQs Collapse What is the effect of withdrawing a demand or election on the international application? What is the process for withdrawing a demand or election in a PCT application? Who has the authority to cancel elections in a PCT application? What are the requirements for signing a withdrawal of demand or election in a PCT application?