Who can represent applicants in international patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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 1807 , applicants of international applications can be represented by: Attorneys or agents registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office An applicant appointed as a common representative The MPEP states: “ Applicants of international applications may be represented by attorneys or agents registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office or by an applicant appointed as a common representative ” (37 CFR 1.455(a)). If no representative is appointed and there are multiple applicants, the first named applicant who is entitled to file with the U.S. Receiving Office is considered the common representative. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse First Named Applicant Is Common Representative If No Attorney/Agent MPEP 1807 Required Attorney or Agent Required for International Applications MPEP 1807 Permitted Appointment of Agent Required for PCT Applications MPEP 1807 Required Requirement for Multiple Applicants to Sign Power of Attorney MPEP 1807 Required Attorney or Agent May Represent Applicants Before USPTO for International Applications MPEP 1807 Permitted Attorney or Agent Must Be Registered to Practice Before USPTO MPEP 402 Required Power of Attorney Must Be Submitted Directly to Specific Authorities MPEP 1807 Required Attorney May Appoint Associate Who Is of Record MPEP 1807 Required Earlier Appointment Revoked Upon New One MPEP 1807 Powers of Attorney Must Be Submitted Until Search Report MPEP 1807 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does limited recognition apply to international patent applications? Can an inventor authorize someone else to sign the application oa...