New simplified procedure for deletions from the list of professional representatives
A simplified procedure for ex officio deletions from the list will apply from 1 June 2025. It will speed up the removal of names from the list, in particular in cases of non-payment of the annual subscription to the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi).
The searchable database of professional representatives is widely consulted by users seeking advice for their patent applications, so it is helpful that deletions proceedings are concluded promptly.
Under the new practice, the EPO will send a communication informing the professional representative about the intended deletion and inviting them to request an appealable decision within two months if they have any objections to the intended deletion. If the intended deletion relates to the non-payment of the epi annual subscription under Rule 154(1) EPC, the communication will also inform the representative that they can prevent their deletion by paying the due fee. If no request for an appealable decision is filed and the subscription is not paid within that time limit, the EPO will proceed with the deletion.
It is noted that the epi will continue to send a reminder for non-payment of the subscription before the EPO starts the deletion procedure.
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