https://new.epo.org/en/node/r23a.html Chapter V – Prior European applications Close Submenu Breadcrumb Home European Patent Convention (EPC 1973) – Table of Contents Implementing Regulations Part II Chapter V Rule 23a Print Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Rule 23a – Prior application as state of the art Rule 23a – Prior application as state of the art Rule 23a Prior application as state of the art A revised version of the European Patent Convention entered into force on 13 December 2007. The provisions of the revised Convention apply unless the transitional provisions provide for the applicability of the EPC 1973. A European patent application shall be considered as comprised in the state of the art under Article 54, paragraphs 3 and 4, only if the designation fees under Article 79, paragraph 2, have been validly paid. Next Previous Show modifications Cross-reference list EPC 1973EPC 2000R. 23a -