How and where do I file a demand for international preliminary examination?

To file a demand for international preliminary examination, use the prescribed form (PCT/IPEA/401) and submit it, together with any further document relating to this PCT Chapter II procedure (e.g. amendments and/or arguments filed under Article 34 PCT), directly to the EPO as IPEA. The EPO as IPEA will indicate the date of receipt on the demand and promptly notify you of that date. You can file the demand with the EPO as IPEA direct (i.e. by hand), by post or online (see also points 2.2.003-2.2.033 of the Euro-PCT Guide). You can also use the ePCT service for online filing of a demand under PCT Chapter II directly with the EPO as IPEA, and also for indicating the payment of fees related to the demand.