What are the key fees for entering the national stage of a PCT application in the United States?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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 key fees for entering the national stage of a PCT application in the United States include:
- The basic national fee
- The search fee
- The examination fee
- The application size fee
According to MPEP 1893.01(c), “The basic national fee must be paid prior to the expiration of 30 months from the priority date to avoid abandonment of the international application as to the United States.” The search and examination fees are due on commencement of the national stage but may be paid later with a surcharge.