The EPC provides in certain cases for the reduction of the filing fee, examination fee, opposition fee, fee for appeal, limitation or revocation fee and fee for petition for review. The reduction is fixed in the Rules relating to Fees as a percentage of the fee.

Where a fee is reduced - in contrast to cases of fee refunds - the reduced rate may be paid instead of the full fee. The factual conditions for a reduction of the fee must be met on or before the day the period for payment expires.