This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting PCT Article 18, including 1 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

The – The International Search Report is a critical step in the international application process, involving the making and preparing of an international search as outlined by PCT Article 15.

What this section covers

• This section outlines the procedural steps for international applications at ISA, including making and preparing the international search.
• It covers the main steps of an international application, focusing on the international search process and its preparation.

Key obligations

• Practitioners must ensure the international application complies with PCT Article 18 requirements for making and preparing the international search.
• Practitioners must submit a complete application to ISA, including all necessary documents and information for the international search.
• Practitioners must comply with PCT Article 18 requirements regarding the timing and format of the international search report.

Practice notes

• Practitioners should carefully review the application for completeness and ensure all required documents are included in the international search process.
• Practitioners should be aware of potential delays if the application is incomplete or does not meet PCT Article 18 requirements.

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