EPO - Discussion forums

Hello all,

I have a question regarding the legal status codes for a patent. What exactly does non-entry into the national phase mean? Does that mean that the patent is not being granted in a specific country? In this case, am I correct to assume that the event code means non-entry in Germany?

Event date : 2016/05/19
Event code : NENP DE
Code Expl.: NON-ENTRY INTO THE NATIONAL PHASE IN:

Thanks for your help!

Hi,

This code shows that PCT regional application or EURO-PCT (you did not mention which patent application that is) didn't enter national phase into specific country and yes in this case is Germany. This information is important because Germany was designated country for that international patent application and the event signalises that there will be no confirmation of that specific patent right for that specific country, which does not necessarily mean that this invention will not have patent or other intellectual property protection on DE territory, it will just not be that specific regional or international patent.


Regards,
Patent Data Services