How do I file a foreign priority claim for an international application entering the national stage in the U.S.?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

For international applications entering the national stage in the United States under 35 U.S.C. 371, the process for filing a foreign priority claim is different from regular U.S. applications. According to MPEP 214.01:

“The claim for priority must be made within the time limit set forth in the PCT and the Regulations under the PCT in an international application entering the national stage under 35 U.S.C. 371, except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section.”

This means that you need to follow the time limits specified in the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and its regulations when filing a priority claim for an international application entering the U.S. national stage.

For more detailed information on the timing and procedure for claiming priority in national stage applications, you should refer to MPEP § 213.06, which specifically deals with this topic.

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Disclosure Individuals, Disclosure Timing, Materiality Standard, Prima Facie Case