What is a divisional application?

A divisional application is a later application for an independent or distinct invention, carved out of a nonprovisional application. It discloses and claims only subject matter disclosed in the earlier or parent application. As stated in MPEP 201.06:

A later application for an independent or distinct invention, carved out of a nonprovisional application (including a nonprovisional application resulting from an international application or international design application), an international application designating the United States, or an international design application designating the United States and disclosing and claiming only subject matter disclosed in the earlier or parent application, is known as a divisional application.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: continuation applications, Divisional application, patent application types