What happens to patent applications subject to a Secrecy Order at the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 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. Applications subject to a Secrecy Order will be: Deleted from any image file system within the USPTO Converted to paper Held with Licensing and Review Transferred to a designated examiner for examination Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Applicant Must Explain National Security Markings MPEP 121 Security Markings Must Be Present for Filing MPEP 121 Security Markings on Patent Drawings MPEP 121 Permitted Application Under Secrecy Order Requires Paper File MPEP 115 International Applications Subject to Chapter 17 Provisions MPEP 110 Required National Security Markings Required for Classified Applications MPEP 115 Permitted Secrecy Order Required for National Security Marked Patents MPEP 130 Required Secrecy Markings Must Be Reviewed Before Filing MPEP 121 Required Types of Secrecy Orders for Patent Applications MPEP 120 National Security Classified Patent Application Must Be Declassified Before Publication and Allowance MPEP 120 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the requirements for personnel working with secrecy order applications? How are classified documents marked at the USPTO? What are the procedures for transmitting secrecy order applications within the USPTO? What happens if a patent application is filed with the USPTO containing what appears to be national security markings? How are papers containing security markings like &#8220;Secret&#8221; or &#8220;Confidential&#8221; treated by the USPTO?