Only a few weeks left until the discontinuation of the Online Filing (eOLF) software - switch to the web-based Online Filing 2.0 now!
With the phase-out of the legacy eOLF tool at the end of December, users are reminded to finalise their transition to Online Filing 2.0 – the secure, web-based platform for filing patent applications and procedural requests.
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 this effort, several legacy tools have been replaced in recent years by more efficient, user-friendly solutions based on modern technologies.
The next step will be the decommissioning of the desktop-based Online Filing software (eOLF) at the end of 2025.
As of 1 January 2026, the Online Filing 2.0 (OLF 2.0) will become the standard tool for filing patent applications online. Other procedural requests may continue to be submitted either through OLF 2.0 or, where available, via MyEPO.
OLF 2.0 offers numerous advantages:
Filing of EP and PCT applications; requests for entry into the European phase and for unitary effect; and submissions in opposition, appeal, limitation and revocation proceedings
Web-based access from most browsers – no installation or updates required
Secure data storage on EPO-hosted networks
Access restricted to registered users via two-factor authentication
Ability to manage access rights within your organisation, enabling multi-user collaboration for drafting, signing, submission and fee payment
Custom templates for all forms
Import and sharing of applications and address books within 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.
If OLF 2.0 is temporarily unavailable
In rare cases where standard EPO filing services are temporarily unavailable, the EPO Contingency Upload Service can be used as a last-resort filing method. However, users are advised to rely on regular online tools to benefit from built-in business validations and faster processing.
Learn more
Watch our OLF 2.0 tutorials and seminar recordings on the EPO’s YouTube channel.
Using eOLF for filing with national offices
For questions about using eOLF with national patent offices, please contact the respective national office directly.
New to our online services?
Join users worldwide in benefiting from the digital patent granting process. Once you have filed an application, you can use MyEPO services to manage all your interactions with the EPO.
Further information
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