Publication of PCT Application

There are several circumstances in which the PCT applications will not be published. Failure of publication occurs where: (1) an international application is withdrawn or considered withdrawn before the technical preparations for publication have been completed (PCT Article 21(5)); (2) where, at the expiration of 18 months from the priority date, the international application contains the designation only of such States as have made declarations under Article 21(2)(a), and subparagraph (b) does not apply; (3) at the request of the applicant; and (4) when a national application or a patent based on the international application is published by or on behalf of the national Office of any designated State having made a declaration under subparagraph (a), promptly after such publication but not before the expiration of 18 months from the priority date. Whew!