What must be included in an International Application?

An International Application must include a request indicating that it is an international application. This is essential because the request serves as the formal declaration to the patent office that the applicant intends to seek international protection for their invention. The request typically includes important information such as the title of the invention, the applicant's details, and designations of contracting states where protection is sought. This foundational document is critical for properly categorizing the application and ensuring that it is processed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) guidelines.

While other components like claims, specifications, and fees are necessary for a complete application, they do not fulfill the specific requirement of indicating that the application is international. Therefore, correctly framing the application with an explicit request is vital for initiating the PCT process and ensuring compliance with international patent regulations.