https://www.epo.org/en/node/features

Features & benefits

You can use the Online Filing software to file the following applications and documents with the EPO:

  • EP, Euro-PCT and PCT applications and requests for unitary effect
  • submissions in opposition, appeal, limitation and revocation proceedings
  • subsequently filed documents for all EP and UP proceedings.

You can also use it to file the following with participating national offices:

  • EP and PCT applications
  • national applications and other documents in national procedures.

You can file using

  • the software itself
  • the software's PMS interface, which allows you to file straight from your own patent management system.

Features

With Online Filing you can

  • fill in patent application forms directly on your PC
  • attach specifications in PDF format or in XML (using PatXML)
  • validate, sign and send applications direct from your patent management system via a special PMS interface
  • contribute to the development of Online Filing via the Open Source project

Benefits

The key benefits of Online Filing are:

 

Security

 

  • 128-bit encryption
  • PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) technology
  • Smart card with two certificates plus 8-digit PIN code
  • SSL (secure socket layer) connection

Reliability

  • Internet-based end-to-end SSL connection ensures that what is sent is what is received

Capacity

  • Large attachments (up to 50 000 pages) possible
  • Optional CD-R filing for mega-applications

Efficiency

  • Full electronic handling of filings
  • Savings in time (for example by importing data from existing address books or sent applications, or by sending applications direct from your PMS)
  • Reduction in clerical and administrative work
  • Decrease in paper-handling costs

Speed

  • Instant issue of receipt, showing date and application number

User-friendliness

  • Transfer of data from existing applications to subsequent applications, for example from EP(1001E2K) to EP(1038E) or from PCT/RO/101 to Euro-PCT(1200E2K)
  • Compatibility with new MS Vista SP1 operating system
  • Subsequently Filed Documents plug-in available
  • Many national plug-ins available in the software
  • Choice of network or stand-alone version (does not apply to Vista SP1)
  • Management of distinct user profiles possible
  • Live Update service updates the software at chosen intervals
  • Easy address book import and export in CSV format

Reduced fees

  • EUR 80 reduction in filing fee for European patent applications EP(1001E2K) and requests for entry into the European phase EP(1200E2K) filed online
  • CHF 200 reduction in international filing fee if description, claims and abstract are filed in PDF
  • CHF 300 reduction in international filing fee if description, claims and abstract are filed in XML