Foundations overview

Our commitment to quality is based on the solid legal framework of the EPC – and the expertise of our staff.

A solid basis for delivering quality 

Examiner at work

European Patent Convention

The European Patent Convention is the backbone of the European Patent system, celebrating 50 years since its implementation.

Two people look at the Guidelines for examination on screen

Guidelines

EPO guidelines for examination are revised annually with input from our users.

Five people with folded arms

Our staff

Well trained and dedicated staff are experts in their field.

Enabling quality

Enabling our staff to provide the highest standards of quality.

High quality products & services

We strive to provide the legal certainty our users need by delivering search, examination and opposition products of high substantive quality in a consistent manner.

Quality through networking

Quality is a joint responsibility between the EPO and its users. By telling us where improvements can be made, the EPO can, and does, act to ensure even higher quality products.