What information is required for non-English language documents in an IDS?
What information is required for non-English language documents in an IDS?
For non-English language documents cited in an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS), the following information is required:
- A concise explanation of the relevance of the document, unless a complete translation is provided.
- A written English language translation of the document, or a portion thereof, if it is within the possession, custody, or control of, or is readily available to any individual designated in 37 CFR 1.56(c).
According to MPEP 609.04(a):
“Where the information listed is not in the English language, but was cited in a search report or other action by a foreign patent office in a counterpart foreign application, the requirement for a concise explanation of relevance can be satisfied by submitting an English-language version of the search report or action which indicates the degree of relevance found by the foreign office.”
This provision allows applicants to efficiently provide the necessary context for foreign language documents without extensive translations.
To learn more:
Topics:
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure