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    What is the Electronic Filing System (EFS)?

    EFS is electronic system for submitting patent applications, computer readable format (CRF) biosequence listings, and pre-grant publication submissions to the USPTO via the Internet.

    It includes:

  • authoring tools to help the applicant prepare a patent specification in XML format;
  • a software package called ePAVE (electronic packaging and validation engine) to assemble the various parts of the application and transmit the application to USPTO over the Internet; and
  • a digital certificate to secure the transmission of the application to the USPTO.
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    What type of submissions can be filed with EFS?

    EFS can be used to submit:

  • New utility patent applications;
  • Provisional applications;
  • Biosequence listings for applications previously filed in paper;
  • Pre-grant publication resubmissions for previously filed applications, where the applicant wants an amended, redacted, voluntary, or republication specification to be published rather than the application as originally filed;
  • Subsequent bio-sequence submissions;
  • Multiple assignments; and
  • Electronic Information Disclosure Statements (eIDS).
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    At this time EFS does not accept:

  • Design applications;
  • New plant applications;
  • Corrected or revised patent application republications per 37 CFR 1.221(b);
  • Reissue applications;
  • International Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications; and
  • Reexamination requests.
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    When can submissions be filed with EFS?

    EFS Submissions will be accepted between the hours of 6 AM ET Sunday and 11 PM ET Saturday.





These materials have been prepared by Noblitt & Gilmore, LLC for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.  This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute, an attorney-client relationship between Noblitt & Gilmore, LLC and the Reader.  Readers should not act on this information without first seeking professional counsel.  Please contact us directly at (480) 994-9025 before sending any material.