What is the significance of the Access Code on the Request to Retrieve Electronic Priority Application?

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.

The Access Code on the Request to Retrieve Electronic Priority Application plays a crucial role in the priority document exchange process. The MPEP states:

‘The Request to Retrieve Electronic Priority Application must include the Access Code assigned to that application by the applicant or applicant’s representative.’

This Access Code is essential because it allows the USPTO to securely retrieve the priority document from the foreign office. Without the correct Access Code, the USPTO cannot access and retrieve the document, which could lead to issues with establishing priority for your application.

It’s important to ensure that the Access Code you provide on the Request form is accurate and matches the one assigned by the foreign office. Incorrect or missing Access Codes can result in delays or failures in retrieving the priority document, potentially affecting your patent application’s priority claim.

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority MPEP 215-Certified Copy of Foreign Application Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Disclosure Individuals, Disclosure Timing, Fees 1 17, Foreign Priority Claim Requirements, right of priority