The Supplementary International Search gives PCT applicants the option of requesting one or more supplementary searches from participating ISAs in addition to the main PCT search.

PCT applicants may request a Supplementary International Search to be carried out by a different International Searching Authority than the Authority handling the PCT application.

The Supplementary International Search request must be filed and fees paid to the International Bureau.

Objectives:

• To benefit PCT applicants by reducing the likelihood of new prior art being found in the national phase
• To allow PCT applicants to obtain an additional search report taking into account the growing linguistic diversity of the prior art being found.
   

Procedures for the Supplementary International Search

• The Supplementary International Search is carried out on the PCT application as filed
• The Supplementary Search Authority (SSA) begins the Supplementary Search at the latest by the expiration of 22 months from the priority date.
• The Supplementary International search report (SSR) shall be established within 28 months from the priority date. The SSR is transmitted to the PCT applicant and the International Bureau.
   

Time limit to file the request:

• The Supplementary Search is available for any PCT application for which the time limit expires on or after 1 January 2009.
• The time limit to file the request for the Supplementary International Search is within 19 months from the priority date of the PCT application.
   

 Read more about the advantages of using Nordic Patent Institute to carry out your Supplementary International Search