When did the EPO become available as an International Searching Authority for U.S. applicants?
The European Patent Office (EPO) became available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents on October 1, 1982.
MPEP 1840.01 specifically states: “Since October 1, 1982, the European Patent Office (EPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office or in the International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office.” The original announcement was published in the Official Gazette on September 28, 1982.
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