What is the role of the European Patent Office as an International Searching Authority?

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.

The European Patent Office (EPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents since October 1, 1982. This applies to applications filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office or in the International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office.

As stated in MPEP 1840.01, “Since October 1, 1982, the European Patent Office (EPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office or in the International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office.”