How does the PCT system interact with foreign priority claims?

The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) system interacts with foreign priority claims in several important ways:

1. Priority claims in PCT applications:
– PCT applications can claim priority to earlier foreign applications under the Paris Convention.
– The priority period is 12 months from the earliest priority date.

2. PCT as a basis for priority:
– A PCT application can serve as the basis for a priority claim in a later-filed national or regional application.

3. Effect on time limits:
– The 30-month time limit for entering the national phase is calculated from the priority date (if claimed) or the PCT filing date if no priority is claimed.

4. Restoration of priority rights:
– The PCT system allows for restoration of priority rights if an international application is filed within 14 months of the priority date and the delay was unintentional.

5. Certified copies:
– The PCT system has provisions for providing certified copies of priority documents to designated offices.

As stated in MPEP 213.06: “In an international application entering the national stage under 35 U.S.C. 371, the claim for priority must be made within the time limit set forth in the PCT and the Regulations under the PCT.”

The PCT system provides a streamlined process for seeking patent protection internationally while preserving priority rights, but applicants must be aware of the specific requirements and time limits within the PCT system.