What are some common reasons for abandonment of an international application in the national stage?

International applications can become abandoned in the national stage due to various deficiencies. MPEP 1893.02 highlights some common reasons:

1. Failure to submit the basic national fee within the required timeframe
2. Insufficient fee payment
3. Failure to provide a copy of the international application (if necessary)
4. Not meeting additional requirements set by the USPTO, such as submitting an English translation, oath/declaration, or required fees

The MPEP states: “Examiners and applicants should be aware that sometimes papers filed for the national stage are deficient and abandonment results. For example, if the fee submitted does not include at least the amount of the basic national fee that is due, the application becomes abandoned.”

It’s crucial for applicants to ensure all requirements are met and fees are paid in full to avoid unintentional abandonment.

To learn more:

• application abandonment reasons
• national stage requirements
• fee deficiency
• document submission