When are patent applications classified for publication?

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 the MPEP, patent applications are classified well in advance of their projected publication date:

“At least 9 weeks prior to the projected publication date, applications are classified using programs designed to enable entry of certain data required for publication of patent applications.”

This process ensures that the classification information is available for inclusion in the published patent application. The classification process includes assigning at least a primary classification and an international classification to each application.