What is the purpose of Form PCT/IPEA/408 in international patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 4 Related FAQs 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. Form PCT/IPEA/408 serves a specific purpose in the international patent application process. According to MPEP 1876 : “Mistakes that are not obvious may be called to applicant’s attention in Box VII of PCT/IPEA/408.” This form is used by examiners to communicate non-obvious mistakes or issues to the applicant. It’s part of the written opinion of the International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA) and provides a formal means of notifying applicants about potential problems or areas for improvement in their application that may not be immediately apparent. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse International Preliminary Examining Authority Must Indelibly Mark Rectified Sheets MPEP 1876 Required Non-Obvious Mistakes Noted in Box VII of PCT/IPEA/408 MPEP 1876 Permitted Mistakes Noted and Called to Applicant’s Attention by Examiner MPEP 1876 Permitted Competent International Preliminary Examining Authority Processes Demand Based on USPTO Receipt Date MPEP 1865 Rectification of Obvious Mistakes Must Be Forwarded to International Bureau MPEP 1876 Required Examiner Can Invite Applicant to Correct Obvious Errors Using Form PCT/IPEA/411 MPEP 1876 Permitted Requirement for Written Opinion of International Searching Authority MPEP 1878.01(a)(1) Requirement for Written Opinion of International Searching Authority MPEP 1878.01(a)(3) Examiners Must Sign PCT/IPEA Forms MPEP 1876 Required International Bureau Must Notify Elected Offices of Rectifications MPEP 1876 Other Related FAQs 4 FAQs Collapse What is the examiner&#8217;s role in identifying mistakes in international patent applications? What is the difference between obvious and non-obvious mistakes in intern...