If the translation of the Euro-PCT application is not filed within the 31-month time limit, the application is deemed to be withdrawn and the applicant is informed of this in a communication. Moreover, the application will not be considered as comprised in the state of the art under Article 54(3) EPC (see point 5.17.001).

The loss of rights is deemed not to have occurred if, within two months from notification of the above communication, the translation is supplied and further processing is requested by payment of the relevant fee. 

Alternatively, the applicant may request reinstatement of rights under Rule 49.6 PCT if the application is deemed withdrawn because the translation was not filed in due time. However, given that the fee is higher and stricter requirements apply, this remedy has no advantages unless the period for requesting further processing has already expired.

If the time limit for requesting further processing has been missed (see point 5.5.007), a request for re-establishment of rights in respect of the period under Rule 135(1) EPC may be filed. The request is not deemed to have been filed until the fee for re-establishment relating to the omitted act, i.e. filing the translation under Rule 159(1)(a) EPC, has been paid. Attention is drawn to the further requirements under Article 122 and Rule 136 EPC for the request to be admissible and allowable (see also points 5.13.018 and point 5.19.001).