6. Substantive examination of a Euro-PCT application

Substantive examination starts in different ways depending on whether a supplementary European search was performed or dispensed with.

If a supplementary European search is performed, the application will proceed to substantive examination on condition that either the confirmation required under Rule 70(2) was duly filed or the right to a communication under Rule 70(2) was duly waived and that, where applicable, a reply to the written opinion was received in due time (A‑IV, 5.2).

If a supplementary European search is dispensed with (A‑XIV, 1.1) and the formalities officer finds that no formal requirement stands in the way, the application is forwarded to the examining division for substantive examination on expiry of the six-month period under Rules 161(1) and 162.