What is a “general power of attorney” in international patent applications?

A “general power of attorney” in international patent applications is a document that appoints an agent to represent the applicant in relation to any international application that may be filed by that applicant. This is explained in MPEP 1807, which cites PCT Rule 90.5:

“Appointment of an agent in relation to a particular international application may be effected by referring in the request, the demand or a separate notice to an existing separate power of attorney appointing that agent to represent the applicant in relation to any international application which may be filed by that applicant (i.e., a “general power of attorney”)“

To use a general power of attorney:

1. It must be deposited with the receiving Office (or relevant Authority)
2. A copy must be attached to the request, demand, or separate notice
3. The request, demand, or separate notice must refer to the general power of attorney

This allows an applicant to appoint an agent for multiple applications without having to submit a new power of attorney for each one.

To learn more:

• general power of attorney
• international patent applications
• PCT applications
• patent representation