The USPTO now requires patent applicants and patent owners who are not domiciled in the United States or its territories to be represented by a USPTO-registered patent attorney or agent. The rule is intended to improve examination efficiency, reduce the patent application backlog, enhance patent quality, and deter fraud and misrepresentation.

The requirement applies to all papers submitted to the USPTO on or after July 20, 2026, including matters involving applications filed before that date. All submissions must be signed by a registered patent practitioner when representation is required.

Foreign applicants and patent owners with pending matters should secure qualified U.S. patent counsel before upcoming response deadlines to avoid potential procedural complications. Cislo & Thomas LLP can assist foreign clients with U.S. patent prosecution and related matters.