The EPO provides high-quality patents and efficient services that foster innovation, competitiveness and economic growth

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Is your invention really new? Or are you looking for an existing technical solution?

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Read plain language explanations, discover free tools, check if a patent is right for your innovation and find out if you are ready to apply for one.

New simpler system saves time and costs. 

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Introducing the new website
Based on your feedback, we have redesigned epo.org to be easier to use, more transparent and greener.
Digital transformation
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European Inventor Award 2023
Watch the highlights - and some behind the scenes footage - from the award ceremony in Valencia.
European Inventor Award
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17:24
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EPO Annual Review 2022
Highlights of the past 18 months
Publications
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02:45
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Avelino Corma Canós
The inventor won the Lifetime Achievement category at the European Inventor Award 2023.
European Inventor Award

Quality – our commitment to excellence

Challenging ourselves to achieve even higher levels of quality

Get to know the EPO!

The latest figures and patenting trends from the EPO, including data downloads and country-specific profiles.

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Gain insight into our operations and decision-making processes.

Sustainability will be the focal point of the new Strategic Plan 2028.

50 years EPC

2023 is a landmark year for the European patent system, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the EPC.