What happens if I don’t provide the required translation for a non-English provisional application?

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.

If you fail to provide the required English translation and statement of accuracy for a non-English provisional application, your current application may be abandoned. The MPEP states:

“If 1) and 2) are not filed (or if the benefit claim is not withdrawn) prior to the expiration of the time period set in this Office action, the present application will be abandoned. See 37 CFR 1.78.”

This means you must either provide the required documents or withdraw the benefit claim to avoid abandonment of your application.

For more information on application abandonment, visit: application abandonment.

For more information on non-English language, visit: non-English language.

For more information on provisional application, visit: provisional application.