When an English translation is required for foreign priority, what form must it take?

The requirement for an English translation of a foreign priority document to be accompanied by a certification is based on the need for accuracy and reliability in the translation process. This certification ensures that the translation faithfully represents the original document and confirms that the translation was performed by someone competent in both the source and target languages.

In patent applications, particularly when claiming priority from a foreign application, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) mandates this certification to avoid any potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the original document. This additional layer of verification is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the patent application process and reinforces the legal standing of the claims made based on the priority date.

While there may be various methods to document a translation, having a certification specifically affirms that the translation is accurate and meets the necessary legal criteria, which directly supports the validity of the priority claim.