phase’ mean in relation to the Patent Cooperation Treaty
(PCT)?
Note that a PCT patent application is really a bundle of national
patent applications.
In "Chapter II procedure", international examining authority provides
for IPER, i.e. non-binding assessment of patentability. IPER may
be used as basis of further examination.
After international phase (up to 31 months from priority) applicant
may enter national/regional phase where application is examined
by PO of designated states and subject to substantive examination.
Nothing on this site constitutes legal advice, an offer, an offer to treat or a legal relationship.
Always check with your IP consultant.
