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The European Patent Convention

 
 
Table of Contents - The European Patent Convention
Implementing Regulations to the Convention on the Grant of European Patents
Part IV Implementing Regulations to Part IV of the Convention
Chapter III Publication of the European patent application
Rule 70 Request for examination
Rule 70
Request for examination 
Art. 14, 16, 18, 94, 121, 129
R. 6, 10, 65, 69, 112, 113, 142, 159
(1)
The applicant may request examination of the European patent application up to six months after the date on which the European Patent Bulletin mentions the publication of the European search report. The request may not be withdrawn. 
(2)
If the request for examination has been filed before the European search report has been transmitted to the applicant, the European Patent Office shall invite the applicant to indicate, within a period to be specified, whether he wishes to proceed further with the application, and shall give him the opportunity to comment on the search report and to amend, where appropriate, the description, claims and drawings. 
(3)
If the applicant fails to reply in due time to the invitation under paragraph 2, the application shall be deemed to be withdrawn.
References
Art. 14, 16, 18, 94, 121, 129
R. 6, 10, 65, 69, 112, 113, 142, 159
 
Cross-reference list
EPC EPC 1973
R. 70Art. 94(2), (3); Art. 96(1); R. 51(1)