What is the International Preliminary Examination Report?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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 International Preliminary Examination Report (IPER) is a document issued as part of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) process. It provides a preliminary and non-binding opinion on the patentability of an invention claimed in an international patent application.

According to MPEP 1879.02, “The international preliminary examination report and its annexes, if any, are transmitted to the applicant and the International Bureau using a Notification of Transmittal of International Preliminary Report on Patentability (Form PCT/IPEA/416).”

Tags: international preliminary examination report, Iper, Patent Cooperation Treaty, PCT