Euro-PCT Guide – PCT procedure at the EPO
16th edition / January 2023
This guide is aimed at applicants interested in pursuing the procedure under the PCT and focuses on elements specific to the PCT procedure before the EPO. It is referred to as the "Euro-PCT Guide" to distinguish it from the PCT Applicant's Guide published by WIPO ("WIPO PCT Guide").
The Euro-PCT Guide aims to cover all the points to note when the EPO acts as:
- a receiving Office (RO)
- an International Searching Authority (ISA)
- a Supplementary International Searching Authority (SISA)
- an International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA)
- a designated or elected Office.
Available formats
The Euro-PCT Guide is published in English, French and German and is only available electronically.
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Download Euro-PCT GuideDisclaimer
The Euro-PCT Guide is of a summary nature. It gives an overview of the procedures under the PCT before the EPO, including entry into the European phase before the EPO as designated/elected Office. The information it provides is not to be considered complete, nor is it intended to replace relevant WIPO publications and EPO decisions and notices concerning specific issues.
This edition of the Euro-PCT Guide is based on the information available on 1 January 2022. Any changes to PCT procedures before the EPO implemented after that date are not reflected in this edition. As a result, applicants using the guide are advised to check whether any relevant changes to the procedures have entered into force since 1 January 2022.
Feedback on this edition
You are welcome to send suggestions for additions or improvements at any time to international_pct_affairs@epo.org.