How does the USPTO define an ‘international application’?

The term ‘international application’ is defined in 37 CFR 1.9(b). An international application typically refers to a patent application filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), which provides a unified procedure for filing patent applications to protect inventions in its contracting states.

Key points about international applications:

• They are governed by the Patent Cooperation Treaty.
• They can lead to national phase entries in multiple countries.
• They provide a streamlined filing process for seeking patent protection internationally.
• The specific definition in 37 CFR 1.9(b) should be consulted for precise legal terminology.

International applications are distinct from national applications and offer a pathway for inventors to seek protection in multiple countries through a single filing.

For more information on Patent Cooperation Treaty, visit: Patent Cooperation Treaty.