What is the ‘371(c) date’ in a national stage application?
The ‘371(c) date’ in a national stage application refers to the date of entry into the national phase in the United States. This date is determined by the receipt of certain items required under 35 U.S.C. 371(c). The MPEP explains:
“Because the date of entry is dependent upon receipt of certain items required under 35 U.S.C. 371(c), this date is also referred to as the “371(c) date.” The 371(c) date, not the international filing date, is the date that appears in the “Filing or 371(c) Date” box on the filing receipt and the application data sections of the Patent Data Portal and private PAIR.“
It’s important to note that the 371(c) date is different from the international filing date and is used for various administrative purposes within the USPTO.
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