What is an interim copy of a foreign priority document and when is it acceptable?

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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. An interim copy of a foreign priority document is a copy that is submitted before the certified copy is available. The MPEP 213.02 provides guidance on when an interim copy is acceptable: The Office may require that an ‘interim copy’ of the foreign application be furnished in the event that the certified copy of the foreign application is not filed within the time period set forth in 37 CFR 1.55(f) and an exception in 37 CFR 1.55(h), (i), or (j) is not applicable. An interim copy must: Be filed within the later of 4 months from the filing date of the application or 16 months from the filing date of the prior foreign application Be a copy of the original foreign application Be accompanied by a statement that the copy is a true copy Note: An interim copy does not substitute the requirement for a certified copy, which must still be filed during the pendency of the application. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed During National Stage Entry MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Time Limits MPEP 213 Required Certified Copy of Foreign Application Must Be Filed Within Four Months of National Stage Commencement or Sixteen Months from Prior Filing Date MPEP 213 Required Interim Copy Must Be Filed Within Time Limit MPEP 213 Requirement for Priority Document from Participating Office MPEP 213 Required Requirement for Certified Foreign Application Copy MPEP 213 Required Requirement for Filing Certified Copy of Foreign Application MPEP 213 Required Interim Certified Copy for Foreign Application MPEP 213 Certified Copy of Foreign Application Required for PCT National Stage M...