Can additional Contracting States be elected after filing the initial demand for international preliminary examination?
Yes, additional Contracting States can be elected after filing the initial demand for international preliminary examination. According to MPEP 1864.03, which cites PCT Article 31(4)(a): “Additional Contracting States may be elected later. Election may relate only to Contracting States already designated under Article 4.” This provision allows applicants to: Expand their election after the initial…
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