What are the exceptions to public access of patent application files?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. While most patent application files are available for public inspection, there are some exceptions: Pending or abandoned applications that have not been published Applications subject to secrecy orders Certain international applications Applications for which the United States is not a designated country Information that would violate personal privacy or proprietary rights These exceptions help protect sensitive information and maintain confidentiality in specific cases. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Access to Abandoned Published Application Files Is Allowed MPEP 103 Required Public Access to Patented Application Files MPEP 103 Required Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 103 Permitted Abandoned Application Copies Available to Public MPEP 103 Permitted Published Abandoned Patent Application Files Available to Public MPEP 103 Required Abandoned Application Files Available Upon Request MPEP 103 Pending Published Application Files Not Available MPEP 103 Permitted Defensive Publication Files Available to Public MPEP 103 Entire Abandoned Patent Application Available Publicly MPEP 103 Access to Abandoned Applications When Referenced in International Publications MPEP 103 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a &#8216;file wrapper&#8217;? What information is available about reexamination proceedings? How can I petition for access to a confidential patent application? What patent application files are open to public inspection? What is the Image File Wrapper (IFW) system and how does it affect public access to patent applications?