What is the confidential nature of international patent applications?

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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. International patent applications are kept confidential before their international publication, as specified in MPEP 110 . According to PCT Article 30 , the International Bureau and the International Searching Authorities shall not allow access by any person or authority to the international application before the international publication of that application, unless requested or authorized by the applicant. This confidentiality ensures that inventors’ rights are protected during the early stages of the patent process. For more information on international patent applications, visit: international patent applications . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse English Translations of International Applications Designating U.S. Available to Public MPEP 110 Copies of International Application Files Can Be Provided Under Specific Conditions MPEP 110 Permitted Copies of International Application Files Upon Request MPEP 110 International Applications Subject to Chapter 17 Provisions MPEP 110 Required Requirement for International Applications Filed After Nov 29, 2000 MPEP 110 Access to Home and Search Copies of International Applications MPEP 110 Access to International Application Files After Publication MPEP 110 No General Publication Before International Publication or Priority Date MPEP 110 Required Request for International Application File Copies Must Include Publication and Designation of U.S. MPEP 110 Required Request for International Application Copy Must Include Fee and Published Application Front Page MPEP 110 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse When does the USPTO make international application files available to the public? How does the US...