Where the request for examination was filed before transmittal of the supplementary European search report, which is usually the case (see point 602), the EPO invites the applicant after transmittal of the supplementary European search report to indicate within a six-month time limit whether he wishes to proceed further with the application, unless the applicant has expressly waived the right to receive such invitation (see point 603). With the same communication, the applicant is invited to correct any deficiencies noted in the search opinion accompanying the supplementary European search report. Such a reply is mandatory if the search opinion was negative. If the applicant fails to file a reply in such a case, the application is deemed to be withdrawn (see points 589-590).
Where the request for examination was filed before transmittal of the supplementary European search report and the applicant wishes to proceed further, he must notify the EPO accordingly within the six-month time limit. Within the same time limit he may or must, as the case may be, comment on the supplementary European search report by filing amendments (see point 497).
If the applicant does not wish to proceed further, he may actively withdraw the application, or allow it to lapse by simply not filing a reply within the time limit set in the communication under Rules 70(2) and 70a(2) EPC. This will result in the application being deemed withdrawn.
If the application is withdrawn after substantive examination has begun but before expiry of the time limit for replying to the first invitation issued by the examining division under Art. 94(3) EPC or, if no such invitation has been issued, before the date of the communication under Rule 71(3) EPC, the examination fee is refunded at a rate of 50%.
Source: http://www.epo.org/applying/international/guide-for-applicants/html/e/ga_e_ix_2.html
Date retrieved: 30 December 2018
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
EPC Rules relating to Fees
EPO Guidelines - A Formalities Examination
EPO Guidelines - B Search
EPO Guidelines - E General Procedural Matters
EPO Guide for Applicants, part II Int.
EPO Guide for Applicants, part II Int. - E Euro-PCT procedure before the EPO as designated or elected Office
XGA E IV 5 Amendments and the Rule 161 EPC/Rule 162 EPC communication if a supplementary European search is carried out