What is an Article 19 Amendment in the Patent Cooperation Treaty?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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.

An Article 19 Amendment is a mechanism under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) that allows applicants to amend the claims of an international patent application after the issuance of the search report. According to MPEP 1893.01(a)(2), “The claims of an international application may be amended under PCT Article 19 after issuance of the search report.” However, it’s important to note that “The description and drawings may not be amended under PCT Article 19.”

Tags: article 19 amendment, claim amendments, International Patent Application, PCT