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GL A II 1.1 Filing of applications by delivery by hand or by postal services

European patent applications may be filed by delivery by hand or by postal services at the EPO's filing offices in Munich, The Hague or Berlin.

GL A II 1 Where and how applications may be filed

European patent applications must be filed in writing. They may be filed by delivery by hand, by postal services (see A‑II, 1.1) or by means of electronic communication (see A‑II, 1.2).[Rule 1; Rule 2(1); ]

1.1 Filing of applications by delivery by hand or by postal services

GL A II – Filing of applications and examination on filing

1. Where and how applications may be filed

2. Persons entitled to file an application

3. Procedure on filing

4. Examination on filing

5. Late filing of missing drawings or missing parts of the description

GL A I 4 Other Parts relating to formalities

It is not the intention that the formalities staff should concern themselves with only this Part A of the Guidelines. It is expected that they will have to refer frequently to the other Parts and in particular Part E.

GL A I 3 Purpose of Part A

The formalities staff should note that this Part A of the Guidelines is intended to provide them with the knowledge and background which it is felt will assist them in carrying out their functions in a uniform and expeditious manner. It does not, however, provide authority for ignoring the provisions of the EPC and in that regard specific attention is directed to paragraph 3 of the General Part of the Guidelines.

GL A I 2 Responsibility for formalities examination

The matters covered by this Part A are directed to the formalities staff of the EPO whether they be in The Hague, Munich or Berlin. They are directed primarily to the Receiving Section which is specifically responsible under the EPC for ensuring that the formal requirements for European patent applications are adhered to.