What is an international application in patent law?

An international application in patent law refers to a patent application filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The definition of an international application is provided in 37 CFR 1.9(b).

Key points about international applications:

• They are filed under the PCT framework
• They can potentially lead to patent protection in multiple countries
• They undergo an international search and optional international preliminary examination
• They must enter the national phase in desired countries to pursue patent protection

For more detailed information on international applications, refer to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) PCT resources.

For more information on Patent Cooperation Treaty, visit: Patent Cooperation Treaty.

For more information on patent law, visit: patent law.