5.3 Communication with the applicant – representation – address for correspondence (Form 1200, Sections 1, 2 and 3)
5.3.001The EPO will issue any communication only to the applicant or, where applicable, the professional representative. Accordingly, any procedural action will be accepted by the EPO only if it is undertaken by the applicant or by the (appointed) professional representative on the applicant's behalf. An exception applies in respect of fees, which can be validly paid to the EPO by a third party.
5.3.002As a rule, communications from the EPO are issued by postal services via registered letter. However, applicants who have their residence or principal place of business in an EPC contracting state, professional representatives and qualified legal practitioners (see point 5.3.007) may also receive communications electronically if they have registered for the EPO Mailbox service (see point 2.2.032). For using that service, registration via EPO smart card is required. Detailed information is given on the EPO's website.65
5.3.003Applicants who are not obliged to appoint a professional representative for the proceedings in the European phase and have not done so (see point 5.3.006) may indicate an address for correspondence other than their residence, to which the EPO will send its communications. This applies irrespective of whether the applicant is a natural or a legal person.
5.3.005Therefore, an address for correspondence which is acceptable for the procedure in the international phase (see point 2.11.014) does not necessarily comply with the requirements applicable in the European phase.