What is the role of the Japan Patent Office (JPO) 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 Japan Patent Office (JPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for certain PCT applications since July 1, 2015. Specifically, the JPO can serve as an ISA for:

• PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents
• Applications filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office
• Applications filed with the International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office

As stated in the MPEP, Since July 1, 2015, the Japan Patent Office (JPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) 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.