What are the requirements for submitting an interim copy of a foreign priority application?

What are the requirements for submitting an interim copy of a foreign priority application?

Submitting an interim copy of a foreign priority application can be useful when there are delays in obtaining a certified copy. According to MPEP 213.04, here are the requirements:

37 CFR 1.55(j) provides that an applicant who has not filed a certified copy of the foreign application may file an interim copy of the foreign application during the pendency of the application.

To submit an interim copy:

• It must be filed during the pendency of the application
• The copy must be clearly labeled as ‘Interim Copy’
• Include a cover sheet identifying:
  • The application number
  • The foreign application number
  • The country or intellectual property office
  • The filing date
• The interim copy must be a legible copy of the foreign application

Note: An interim copy does not satisfy the requirement for a certified copy. You must still submit a certified copy of the foreign application before the patent is granted.

To learn more:

• interim copy
• foreign priority application
• certified copy
• patent application