What is the priority document exchange program and how does it work?

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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. The priority document exchange program allows the USPTO to obtain priority documents electronically from other participating foreign intellectual property offices, eliminating the need for applicants to submit certified copies themselves. As stated in 37 CFR 1.55(i), the requirement to file a certified copy is considered satisfied if: The foreign application was filed in a participating foreign intellectual property office The claim for priority includes the necessary information for retrieval The copy is received by the USPTO from the participating office Applicants must still make the priority claim within the required time period. This program simplifies the process of submitting priority documents for many applicants. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Certified Copy of Foreign Application Required for PCT National Stage MPEP 213 Required Claim for Priority and Certified Copy Required MPEP 213 Required Priority Claim for Foreign Application Not Required for Restoration Petition MPEP 213 Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Time Limits MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Due Within Specified Time MPEP 213 Required Time Period for Priority Claim Not Extendable MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed During National Stage Entry MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Four Months of National Stage Commencement or Sixteen Months from Prior Filing Date MPEP 213 Required Claim for Priority Must Be Filed Before Patent Grant MPEP 213 Required Interim Certified Copy for Foreign Application MPEP 213 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a certi...