What types of patent applications are exempt from 18-month publication?

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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. According to MPEP 1120 , several types of patent applications are exempt from the 18-month publication rule. These include: Provisional applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(b) Design applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 171 International design applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 385 Reissue applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 251 Additionally, applications may not be published if they are: No longer pending Subject to a secrecy order under 35 U.S.C. 181 National security classified Filed with a nonpublication request in compliance with 37 CFR 1.213(a) These exceptions ensure that certain types of applications or those with specific security concerns are not automatically published. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Provisional and Design Applications Exempt from Publication MPEP 1120 Prohibited Publication of Patent Applications After Eighteen Months MPEP 1120 Eighteen-Month Publication of Patent Applications Unless Excluded MPEP 1120 Application Must Not Be Published If Reply Period Expired But Status Not Changed MPEP 1120 Nonpublication Request for Application MPEP 1120 Nonpublication Request for Application MPEP 1120 Provisional, Design, and Reissue Applications Not Published MPEP 1120 Reissue Applications Not Kept Confidential MPEP 1120 Publication of National Stage Applications Filed After November 29, 2000 MPEP 1120 Utility and Plant Applications No Longer Published via CPA After July 14, 2003 MPEP 1120 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the 18-month publication rule for patent applications? How can an applicant avoid publication of their patent application? What is the projected publication date for a patent application? What are the ...