PCT Applications

Let’s open a new file: PCT applications.

The Patent Cooperation Treaty, or PCT, is an attempt to simplify patent filing procedures, particularly when the applicant wishes to obtain a patent in numerous countries.

Through a so-called ‘PCT’ application, a single filing serves as a filing in all countries.

This system does not, as such, grant a patent: only the initial stages of the procedure are carried out at the international level, while grant remains within the national or regional jurisdiction of each state.

Here are two resources that will be invaluable as you read further:

• The Patent Cooperation Treaty.
• The Regulations under the PCT. This document is akin to implementing regulations (if we were to draw a parallel with French law).

Happy reading!