Can I file a certified copy of a foreign application after paying the issue fee?
Can I file a certified copy of a foreign application after paying the issue fee?
Yes, you can file a certified copy of a foreign application after paying the issue fee, but there are important considerations. According to MPEP 213.04, “If the claim for priority or the certified copy of the foreign application is filed after the date the issue fee is paid, the patent will not include the priority claim unless corrected by a certificate of correction under 35 U.S.C. 255 and 37 CFR 1.323.” This means that while you can still file the certified copy, it won’t automatically be included in your patent. You would need to request a certificate of correction after the patent issues to have the priority claim recognized. It’s always best to file the certified copy before paying the issue fee to avoid this additional step and potential complications.
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