What documents are required to claim foreign priority in a U.S. application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

To claim foreign priority in a U.S. application, you must file a claim for priority and submit a certified copy of the foreign application. MPEP 213.04 states: ‘The claim for priority and the certified copy of the foreign application specified in 35 U.S.C. 119(b) or PCT Rule 17 must, in any event, be filed within the pendency of the application.’

For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, the priority claim must be presented in an Application Data Sheet (ADS). The certified copy must be filed within the later of 4 months from the actual filing date or 16 months from the foreign filing date, with some exceptions.

For more information on certified copy, visit: certified copy.

For more information on foreign priority, visit: foreign priority.

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority MPEP 213-Right of Priority of Foreign Application Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Aia Effective Dates, Disclosure Individuals, national stage requirements, Pct Filing Date, Pct Nationals Residents