259

The renewal fees for a pending Euro-PCT application must be paid to the EPO. These fees are due in respect of the third and each subsequent year, calculated from the date of filing. The date of filing of the Euro-PCT application is the filing date accorded to the international application by the receiving Office (see point 16). A renewal fee which became due within the 31-month time limit for entry into the European phase can be paid without surcharge up to expiry of the 31-month time limit. The renewal fee can still be validly paid within six months of the date, if applicable, of expiry of the 31-month time limit, subject to payment of a 10% surcharge.