When did the EPO become available as an International Searching Authority for U.S. applicants?

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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 European Patent Office (EPO) became available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents on October 1, 1982. MPEP 1840.01 specifically states: “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.” The original announcement was published in the Official Gazette on September 28, 1982. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse USPTO as International Searching Authority for PCT Applications MPEP 1840 Permitted USPTO Acts as International Searching Authority for PCT Applications MPEP 1840 United States as International Searching Authority Requirement MPEP 1840 Applicant Must Choose International Searching Authority on Filing MPEP 1840 Required PTO Can Act as International Searching Authority and Examining Authority MPEP 1840 Required Functions of International Searching Authority MPEP 1840 International Bureau as Receiving Office for U.S. Residents and Nationals MPEP 1801 Choice of International Searching Authority for PCT Filing MPEP 1801 Prohibited Search Fees Found in Official Gazette MPEP 1840 Search Copy Transmitted by Receiving Office to International Searching Authority MPEP 1840 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the EPO determine its competence to search international applications? What is the role of the European Patent Office as an International Searching Authority? Where can I find additional information about the EPO as an Internation...