The PCT application process begins with the filing of an international application with a receiving office (usually the national or regional patent office of the applicant's country). This application includes a request, a description, claims, drawings (if any), and an abstract. The application undergoes an international search to identify prior art, followed by the issuance of an international search report (ISR) and a written opinion on the invention's potential patentability. Applicants can then request an international preliminary examination to further assess patentability before entering the national phase in designated countries.
