Does a PACE request have the same effect as a request for early processing?

No. A PACE request does not result in early processing of the file under Article 23(2) or 40(2) PCT. Nor does an effective request for early processing mean that the application is automatically part of the PACE programme. Instead, each request must be filed separately.

Further information on the PACE programme can be found in the Guidelines for Examination in the EPO, E-VIII, 4 and 4.2, and in the related notice from the EPO dated 30 November 2015.