Where can I file an international patent application in the United States?
International patent applications can be filed in the United States through the following methods:
- Electronically through the USPTO’s electronic filing system (EFS-Web)
- By mail to “Mail Stop PCT, Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, Virginia 22313-1450”
- In person at the Customer Service Window, USPTO Alexandria headquarters, addressed to “Mail Stop PCT”
The USPTO states: International applications may be filed electronically through the Office’s electronic filing system (EFS-Web). International applications and related papers may also be deposited with the United States Receiving Office by addressing the papers to “Mail Stop PCT” and delivering them to the Customer Service Window at the USPTO’s Alexandria headquarters.
It’s important to note that while Priority Mail Express® can be used for filing, the Certificate of Mailing or Transmission procedures under 37 CFR 1.8 do not apply to PCT international applications.
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