Who needs to sign an international patent application?

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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. According to MPEP 1820 , an international patent application must be signed by the applicant(s). Specifically: “Pursuant to PCT Rule 4.15 , the international application must be signed in Box No. X of the request by the applicant, or, where there are two or more applicants, by all of them.” However, it’s important to note that: “Under PCT Rule 26.2bis , it is sufficient for purposes of PCT Article 14(1)(a)(i) that the application is signed by only one of the applicants.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Single Applicant Signature Sufficient for PCT Article 14(1)(a)(i) MPEP 1820 Required Single Applicant Signature Sufficient for Multiple Applicants MPEP 1820 Required Request Must Be Signed by At Least One Applicant MPEP 1820 Signature Not Required for International Application Request MPEP 1820 Permitted Agent May Sign International Application MPEP 1820 Permitted All Applicants Must Sign Request MPEP 1820 Required Missing Request Signature Correctable Under PCT Article 14(1)(a) MPEP 1820 Required Indications Required for One Applicant Only MPEP 1820 Required Request May Be Original or Copy MPEP 1820 Permitted Signature from Designated State Applicant Required MPEP 1820 Permitted Other Related FAQs 4 FAQs Collapse What types of signatures are accepted for international patent applications? Can an agent sign an international patent application? What happens if an international patent application is filed without the applicant&#8217;s signature? Who can sign on behalf of a legal entity in an international patent application?