What is the significance of the “date of receipt” in PCT national phase entry?

The “date of receipt” plays a crucial role in determining the commencement of the national stage for PCT applications entering the U.S. national phase. According to MPEP 1893.01:

“The “date of receipt” is defined in PCT Rule 92.4 as the actual date of receipt of the required papers, or the next working day, in the case of papers received on a day when the Office was not open for the filing of papers.”

This date is significant because:

• It affects the determination of the commencement date for national stage entry
• It can impact the timing of subsequent patent prosecution steps
• It may influence the calculation of certain deadlines and time periods

Applicants should ensure that all required documents and fees are submitted promptly to establish the earliest possible date of receipt.

To learn more:

• PCT
• national phase entry
• date of receipt
• USPTO