Farewell eOLF: switch to Online Filing 2.0 by January 2026
In line with its Strategic Plan 2028, the European Patent Office (EPO) continues to modernise its online services with the aim of delivering a fully digitalised patent granting process by 2027.
As part of these efforts, in recent years the EPO has phased out several legacy tools such as the old Mailbox, MyFiles or the use of physical smart cards, replacing them with more efficient, user-friendly solutions based on modern technologies.
Next in line is the desktop-based Online Filing software (eOLF), which will be discontinued by the end of 2025. As of January 2026, Online Filing 2.0 (OLF 2.0) will be the standard tool for filing patent applications online, other procedural requests may be submitted online through either OLF 2.0 or, where available, via MyEPO.
OLF 2.0, already accounting for more than 70% of all online filings, offers numerous benefits:
The ability to file EP and PCT applications; requests for entry into the European phase and for unitary effect; and submissions in opposition, appeal, as well as limitation and revocation proceedings
Web-based access from most browsers – no installation or updates required
Secure data storage on a network hosted by the EPO
Access restricted to registered users via two-factor authentication
Ability to manage access rights within your organisation, including multi-user collaboration (drafting, signing, submitting, fee payments)
Custom templates for all forms
Import of applications and address books, with options to share them across your organisation
Automatic display of correct fee amounts when filing online, with integrated payment options
The relevant information has been published in the Official Journal of 31 July.
Backup in case OLF 2.0 is unavailable
As a fallback if standard EPO filing services are temporarily unavailable, the EPO Contingency Upload Service can be used as a last resort filing method. This will also be the case when OLF 2.0 is the main filing tool as of 1 January 2026. Nevertheless, users should only use our regular online tools to benefit from built-in business validations and faster processing.
Want to know more?
The next free seminar sessions on the initial use of OLF 2.0 will take place on 11 November (German), 12 November (French), and 13 November (English). Registration will be available soon via our website.
The EPO regularly organises dedicated online seminars on various topics. Check the bi-weekly EPO Newsletter or X (ex-twitter) account for upcoming dates. You can also watch tutorials and recordings of these seminars on the EPO’s YouTube channel.
Using the Online Filing software (eOLF) for filing with national offices
If you have questions regarding the use of eOLF with national patent offices, please contact the respective national office directly.
Not using our online services yet?
Join users from around the world in benefiting from the digital patent granting process. Once you have filed an application, you can use MyEPO services to manage your interactions with the EPO.
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