What is the purpose of the PCT international application transmittal letter?

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 PCT international application transmittal letter (Form PTO-1382) serves to simplify the process of filing PCT international applications and related documents with the United States Receiving Office. As stated in MPEP 1830:

“The form, which is intended to simplify the filing of PCT international applications and related documents with the United States Receiving Office, may be obtained online at www.uspto.gov/patents-getting-started/international-protection/patent-cooperation-treaty/pct-chapter-i-forms.”

This form helps applicants organize and submit the necessary information and documents required for a PCT international application, streamlining the filing process with the U.S. Receiving Office.