What are the requirements for representing applicants before international patent authorities?

The requirements for representing applicants before international patent authorities vary depending on the specific authority. According to MPEP 402.09 and 37 CFR 11.9(c):

An individual not registered under § 11.6 may, if appointed by an applicant, prosecute an international patent application only before the United States International Searching Authority and the United States International Preliminary Examining Authority, provided that the individual has the right to practice before the national office with which the international application is filed as provided in PCT Art. 49, Rule 90 and § 1.455 of this subchapter, or before the International Bureau when the USPTO is acting as Receiving Office pursuant to PCT Rules 83.1 bis and 90.1.

This means that representation rights depend on the specific authority and the individual’s right to practice before the relevant national office or the International Bureau.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 400 - Representative of Applicant or Owner, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: International Patent Authorities, International Preliminary Examining Authority, International Searching Authority, patent representation, USPTO