The time limit under Rule 70(1) for filing the request for examination referred to in A‑VI, 2, runs from the date of publication under Art. 21 PCT of the international search report. However, this time limit will not expire before the time prescribed by Rule 159(1)(f) (31-month time limit). See also E‑IX, 2.1.4.[Art. 153(6); Art. 150(2); Rule 159(1)(f); ]
European substantive examination must normally not begin before expiry of the 31st month from the earliest priority date (Art. 23(1), 40(1) PCT). The only circumstance in which examination may begin earlier is if the applicant has expressly so requested (see E‑IX, 2.8) and if any required supplementary European search report is available.
Source: http://www.epo.org/law-practice/legal-texts/html/guidelines/e/e_ix_2_5_2.htm
Date retrieved: 17 May 2021
15 references found.
Click X to load a reference inside the current page, click on the title to open in a new page.EPC Articles
EPC Implementing Rules
XR.159 EPC The European Patent Office as a designated or elected Office – Requirements for entry into the European phase
EPO Guidelines - A Formalities Examination
EPO Guidelines - E General Procedural Matters
XGL E IX 2.5 Instructions in Chapter A‑VI ("Publication of application; request for examination and transmission of the dossier to examining division")