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Should I post-date my patent application?

Post-dating moves your application to a later date. It can buy time, but it never lets you add new matter, and it can cost you priority.

Ask your patent attorney before trying to post-date a convention or PCT national phase application.

High complexity - significant legal consequences

  • Its date is tied to the earlier priority filing and to international deadlines, such as 31 months for PCT national phase (rule 20(4)(i)).
  • Section 9(3) does not apply to these applications.
  • Treat any post-dating plan here as high risk until advised on your specific facts.

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