Who has the right to file a demand for international preliminary examination under the PCT?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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 1864.02, the right to file a demand for international preliminary examination is governed by PCT Article 31(2) and PCT Rule 54. The key requirements are:

  • The applicant must be a resident or national of a Contracting State bound by Chapter II of the PCT.
  • The international application must have been filed with a receiving Office of or acting for a Contracting State bound by Chapter II.

As stated in the MPEP, “If there are two or more applicants, it is sufficient that one of them be a resident or national of a Contracting State bound by Chapter II, regardless of the elected State(s) for which each applicant is indicated.

Tags: Applicant Rights, demand, international preliminary examination, Patent Cooperation Treaty, PCT