Are English translations required for non-English prior art in reexamination requests?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 Rules 5 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. Yes, English translations are required for non-English prior art submitted with reexamination requests. According to MPEP 2218 : “If any of the documents are not in the English language, an English language translation of all necessary and pertinent parts is also required. See MPEP § 609.04(a), subsection III. An English language summary or abstract of a non-English language document is usually not sufficient.” It’s important to note that providing only a summary or abstract may not be enough. The USPTO requires translations of all necessary and pertinent parts to ensure a thorough examination of the prior art. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Translation Required for Non-English Documents MPEP 2218 Translation Required for Non-English Documents MPEP 2218 Required Requirement for Legible Prior Art Copies MPEP 2218 Legible Copy Required for Patent Request MPEP 2218 Waiver of Patent Copy Submission for U.S. Patents and Publications MPEP 2218 Required Requirement for Patent and Printed Publication Copies MPEP 2218 Required Ex Parte Reexamination Consideration Limited to Patents and Publications MPEP 2217 Color Photographs and Submissions Must Be Legible as Presented MPEP 2218 Non-English Publications Require Translation MPEP 2218 Waiver for U.S. Patents and Publications in Information Disclosure Statement MPEP 2218 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are color photographs or submissions handled in reexamination requests? How should information about copending reexamination proceedings be provided in a reexamination request? What documents must be submitted with an ex parte reexamination request? What happens if a copy of prior art submitt...