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
• 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