What is the role of the International Bureau in the PCT election process?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. The International Bureau (IB) plays a crucial role in the PCT election process, as outlined in MPEP 1881 . Its main responsibilities include: Notifying elected Offices of the demand and elections Sending the notification to elected Offices along with the Article 20 communication Promptly notifying elections made after the initial communication Informing the applicant in writing about the notification and the elected Offices notified Facilitating early communication to elected Offices upon request The MPEP states: “ The notification provided for in Article 31(7) shall be effected by the International Bureau. ” This emphasizes the IB’s central role in managing and distributing information related to PCT elections. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Notification Must Be Effected by International Bureau MPEP 1881 Required Notification to Elected Office with Communication MPEP 1881 Required Applicant Notified of Election and Preliminary Examination Report MPEP 1881 Required Communication Required Before International Publication MPEP 1881 Required Notification Must Include Application Data MPEP 1881 Required Original Demand Sent to International Bureau by IPEA MPEP 1801 International Bureau Must Provide Copy of Earlier Application on Request MPEP 1870 Required IPEA Must Provide Copies Upon Request After IPER Issuance MPEP 110 Required Notification of Demand to International Bureau and Applicant MPEP 1869 International Bureau Sends Amendment Copies to Elected Offices and IPEA MPEP 1801 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What information is included in the PCT notification to elected Offices? What is the process for notifying elected Offices of a PCT appli...