What information can national offices disclose about international patent applications?

While national offices are generally restricted from allowing access to international patent applications, they can disclose limited information. According to MPEP 110, which cites PCT Article 30(2)(b), national offices may inform third parties that they have been designated and publish this fact. However, such information or publication is limited to:

• Identification of the receiving Office
• Name of the applicant
• International filing date
• International application number
• Title of the invention

This provision allows for some transparency in the patent process while still maintaining the confidentiality of the application’s details.

For more information on international patent applications, visit: international patent applications.