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ARTICLE · 12 MAY 2023

Pilot Program To Expedite Issuance Of First Office Action In USA

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The USPTO and its Council for Inclusive Innovation launched a Pilot Program in March 2023 providing an expedited First Office Action for First Time...

IndiaIntellectual Property
Johny Solomon Raj
Johny Solomon Raj
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The USPTO and its Council for Inclusive Innovation launched a Pilot Program in March 2023 providing an expedited First Office Action for First Time Filers in the USA to create a more equitable and diverse innovation ecosystem. This pilot program will open the doors for applicant and inventors who are new in the US patent application process and will provide an easy access to them to US patent system including those historically underserved geographic and economic areas.

As per the current practice of USPTO policy, non-provisional patent applications are examined in the order they were filed. Now, first time patent filers in the USA can participate in this program by filing a petition to make application special using form PTO/SB/464 electronically via Patent Center before a First Office Action is issued, thereby expediting the issuance of a First Office Action.

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