Can non-US citizens obtain limited recognition for patent matters?
Yes, non-US citizens, specifically nonimmigrant aliens residing in the United States, can obtain limited recognition for patent matters under certain conditions. According to MPEP 402.09 and 37 CFR 11.9(b):
A nonimmigrant alien residing in the United States and fulfilling the provisions of paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section may be granted limited recognition if the nonimmigrant alien is authorized by the United States Government to be employed or trained in the United States in the capacity of representing a patent applicant by presenting or prosecuting a patent application.
However, it’s important to note that limited recognition is not granted to non-US citizens residing abroad and automatically expires upon the nonimmigrant alien’s departure from the United States.
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