What information must be included in Form PCT/IPEA/405?

Form PCT/IPEA/405 must include several key pieces of information as outlined in MPEP 1875.01:

1. Reasons for lack of unity: “The examiner must also explain the reasons why the international application is not considered to comply with the requirement of unity of invention.“
2. Compliant claim groups: “The examiner must also specify, on Form PCT/IPEA/405, at least one group or groups of claims which, if elected, would comply with the requirement for unity of invention.“
3. Main invention: The examiner should specify the main invention and claims that will be examined if the applicant fails to restrict or pay additional fees.
4. Additional fees: “The examiner should indicate the total amount of additional fees required for examination of all claimed inventions.“
5. Time limit: “In the box provided at the top of the form, the time limit of one month for response is set according to PCT Rule 68.2.“

The form must be signed by an examiner with at least partial signatory authority. If necessary, supplemental attachment sheets can be used to provide additional information.

To learn more:

• PCT/IPEA/405
• Unity of Invention
• Patent Examination
• International Application