What is an International Search?

It is a search of the prior art related to the filed invention, and the result is prepared as an International Search Report and sent to the applicant and the International Bureau. This International Search Report has no binding effect on the applicant or the Designated Offices, but before commencing the full-scale filing procedures for each designated country, it informs the applicant in advance of the existence of relevant prior art related to their application, so that it can be used as reference material for deciding whether to continue with the procedures. In addition to the prior art search, the International Searching Authority makes a determination on patentability such as novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability, prepares this as a written opinion, and provides the applicant with material for judging the subsequent course of the procedures.