157

Pursuant to Rule 107(1) EPC in the version in force as from 2 January 2002, the applicable time limit for entry into the European phase is always 31 months from the filing date or, if priority has been claimed, from the earliest priority date (see point 117). This 31-month time limit thus applies irrespective of whether or not a demand for preliminary examination was filed (on time) (see points 117-119). As a consequence, the procedure before the EPO as designated or elected Office can and will be dealt with - unlike in the previous version of this guide - in one and the same chapter.