This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting 37 CFR § 1.496, including 7 rules 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.

Summary

This section covers the prosecution of U.S. national stage applications after paying the required search and examination fees, providing guidance on examination procedures by the U.S. International Preliminary Examining Authority.

What this section covers

• This section defines that it covers the prosecution of U.S. national stage applications after paying the search fee as set forth in § 1.492(b)(1).

Key obligations

• Practitioners must ensure the application pays the search fee as set forth in § 1.492(b)(1).
• Practitioners must also pay the examination fee as set forth in § 1.492(c)(1).
• The examination authority is granted by USC § 145 and CFR § 1.496.

Practice notes

• Practitioners should ensure timely payment of the search fee and examination fee to avoid delays in prosecution.
• Incorrect or missing fees can lead to rejection of the application, so careful attention is required.

Related Provisions

• PCT Article 33
• 37 CFR § 1.492
• 37 CFR § 1.102

Based on MPEP Last Modified: 10/30/2024 08:50:22