Can priority be claimed based on applications filed in regional patent offices?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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, applicants can claim priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(a)-(d) based on applications filed in certain foreign regional patent offices. The MPEP states: “In addition to the list of recognized countries set forth in subsection I, above, applicants may claim priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(a)-(d) to applications filed in foreign regional patent offices having member states who are members of the Paris Convention.” The recognized regional patent offices include: African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) Eurasian Patent Office (EAPO) European Patent Office (EPO) Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Patent Office African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) These regional patent offices allow applicants to file a single application that can have effect in multiple member states, streamlining the international patent application process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Priority Claim for Foreign Application Not Required for Restoration Petition MPEP 213 Same Inventor for Foreign Priority Claim MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Required for PCT National Stage MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Time Limits MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Four Months of National Stage Commencement or Sixteen Months from Prior Filing Date MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Due Within Specified Time MPEP 213 Required Priority Claim and Foreign Application Certified Copy Must Be Filed During Pendency MPEP 213 Required Translation of Foreign Application Must Be Accurate MPEP 213 Required Priority Claim Must Be Presented on Application D...