Simplification of filing and signing of authorisations
In its commitment to promote digital transformation and simplify procedures for users, the EPO will streamline the handling of authorisations as of 1 November 2024.
Equal treatment of legal practitioners and professional representatives regarding the filing of authorisations
Legal practitioners will no longer need to file an authorisation as a matter of principle. Only in exceptional cases will they need to file such authorisation, namely either upon invitation by the EPO or in the event of a change of representative involving representatives who are not members of the same association and without explicit withdrawal of the previous representative. This aligns with the existing requirements for professional representatives.
Acceptance of electronic signatures on authorisations
The EPO will accept a broad range of electronic signatures on authorisations, including text string, digital, and facsimile signatures, thus aligning with the legal requirements applicable to documents supporting the requests for registration of a transfer of a patent application.
Information in case of change of representative
Additionally, in the case of a representative change without explicit withdrawal of the previous representative from representation, the EPO will continue to inform the previous representative but will no longer send a copy of the authorisation.
Further information
Related items
Change of practice for EPC and PCT proceedings from 1 October 2024
Users convene to exchange with EPO on quality, digital transformation, legal changes and the Unitary Patent
MyEPO services replace old Mailbox, MyFiles, Admin facilities and all fax services as of today, in line with published decommissioning timeline
Focus on quality, digital tools, services for SMEs and how the Unitary Patent changes the innovation landscape in Europe
Legacy Mailbox, MyFiles, Admin facilities and fax services will no longer be offered
First meeting with the Institute of Professional Representatives under SP2028
EPO President addresses International Conference on IP and Sustainability and meets Estonia's Minister of Justice and the Ministry Secretary General
Requests for entry and re-entry into the list of professional representatives via MyEPO Portfolio
Legacy Mailbox, MyFiles, Admin facilities and fax services will no longer be offered.
Latest new features, including enhanced self-service options, now available to all users.
New notice from the EPO on data storage in Online Filing 2.0 and new decision of the President of the EPO on electronic file system
Fee abolished and new rule enables electronic signatures
European patent network meets in Munich for updates on the latest IT co-operation highlights
Switch to our two-factor authentication (2FA) as soon as possible
Acknowledgements of receipt go solely digital from 1 February 2024
Users advised to switch to 2-factor authentication as EPO smart cards phased out
MIPEF extends digital IP education to top universities in Europe
Information for PCT applicants on the steps for entering the European phase will be available on the EPO website.
New features and services simplify workflows and pave the way to a truly interactive user experience.
How we are transforming the way we interact with our users.