The first step after filing of Patent Application with EPO is Formality Examination which is made to determine whether the application fulfills the necessary procedural and formal requirements as follows:
- an indication that a European patent is sought
- particulars identifying the applicant
- a description of the invention or
- a reference to a previously filed application
including the form and content of the request for grant, drawings and abstract, the designation of the inventor, the appointment of a professional representative, the necessary translations and the fees due.