Learn about patents from the EPO (XII)

What are the legal consequences of not submitting a priority document for a European patent application?

• There are no legal consequences. Priority documents can be submitted at any time.
• If the priority document is not submitted within 16 months after the earliest priority date (or any additional period allowed by the EPO), the European patent application will be deemed withdrawn.
• If the priority document is not submitted within 16 months after the earliest priority date (or any additional period allowed by the EPO), the right of priority will be lost.