Is an inventor’s citizenship required in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. The requirement for an inventor’s citizenship in patent applications has changed: For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012: Citizenship is no longer required by 35 U.S.C. 115 or 37 CFR 1.63. For nonprovisional applications filed before September 16, 2012: Citizenship was required under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 115. As stated in the MPEP: “For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, the citizenship of the inventor is no longer required by 35 U.S.C. 115 or 37 CFR 1.63.” For older applications, if an inventor is not a citizen of any country, a statement to this effect is accepted as satisfying the statutory requirement. Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is an inventor&#8217;s certificate and how does it relate to patent priority rights? Can an inventor authorize someone else to sign the application oath or declaration on their behalf? What is the difference between an inventor and an applicant in a patent application? What are the signature requirements for inventor&#8217;s oaths or declarations? What are the requirements for inventor signatures on patent applications?