Who is responsible for translating the international preliminary examination report and its annexes?
The responsibility for translating the international preliminary examination report and its annexes is divided between the International Bureau and the applicant. According to MPEP 1879.03:
“In that case, the translation of the body of the written opinion and/or report is prepared by the International Bureau, which transmits copies to the applicant and to each interested elected Office. If any elected Office requires a translation of annexes to the report, the preparation and furnishing of that translation is the responsibility of the applicant.”
This division of responsibility is also reflected in PCT Article 36(2), which states:
“(b) Any translation of the said report shall be prepared by or under the responsibility of the International Bureau, whereas any translation of the said annexes shall be prepared by the applicant.”
This arrangement ensures that the main report is consistently translated by the International Bureau, while the applicant is responsible for translating any specific annexes they have provided.
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