2022

Revised timeline published by the Unified Patent Court, but starting date of the EPO transitional measures remains unchanged.

Stay up to date on the latest insights into the quality dialogue between the patent community and the EPO.

How to boost technology-driven businesses with intellectual property

A conference in Ljubljana on the Unitary Patent system marks the 20th anniversary of Slovenia’s accession to the European Patent Convention.

Over 2 200 participants from at least 46 countries attended this year’s User Day, which took place online on 28 and 29 November.

Full ISO certification for quality, health and safety and information security

Update on recent developments including network expansion, additional learning opportunities, strengthened co-operation and technology transfer in Ukraine

From mission impossible to commercial success

EPO President António Campinos and Commissioner Shen Changyu sign new CPC MoU and 2023 annual work plan

More than 1 000 participants attend high-level conference in Brussels.

A second pilot phase has started that will deliver major new features in the coming seven months.

The practice developed over the course of a 32 month pilot will become the norm

The exchange of patent-related data will be an important element in establishing the Unified Patent Court’s user-friendly case management system.

Final report on pilot project for oral proceedings in opposition by videoconference shows user satisfaction at highest levels yet

Supporting the early uptake of the Unitary Patent

The first ever joint assessment at this year’s Stakeholder Quality Assurance Panels constitutes an important step towards developing a common understanding of patent quality.

New EPO study shows a persistent gap in the rate of women inventors in Europe

The Unitary Patent system: A game-changer for innovation in Europe

The EPO is organising three panel discussions with inventors, heads of intellectual property offices and patent attorneys to debate the current state of women’s participation in inventive activities.

EPO publishes smart patent searches to help innovators decarbonise the global economy

To reflect advances in our digital tools, we'll be asking users to accept the new terms and conditions for accessing and using EPO online services.

Learning path for patent examiners from National Offices: 48 booklets to support self-learning.

Deadline for entries to CodeFest extended to 13 November: still time to be in with a chance of winning up to €20 000!

The annual European Judges’ Forum took place on 21 and 22 October in Venice

Engaging discussions with users on legal changes to support digital transformation, oral proceedings by VICO, divisional applications, SPLH, grace period and Unitary Patent

Changes to EPC Rules will take effect on 1 February and 1 November 2023

The Unified Patent Court (UPC) presents list of its 85 judges

A dedicated course for examiners from the African Organisation of Intellectual Property (OAPI) begins today

The SACEPO Working Party on Guidelines met to discuss the EPO Guidelines entering into force in March 2023

New study shows the economic impact of industries making above-average use of IP rights between 2017-19

Explore the event recordings, which contain a wealth of information on the diverse patent data and information resources provided by the EPO and a range of co-operation partners.

Experience art and innovation in action, gain unique insights into the lives and works of contemporary European artists, and discover how many inventions power a Lamborghini.

What makes the inventor and social entrepreneur tick? Find out on 13 October

Joint study by the EPO, the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) and the European Space Agency (ESA) reveals rapid growth in space-borne sensing and green applications.

The Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme between the EPO and the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce of Colombia (SIC) becomes permanent on 1 October 2022.

Montenegro accedes to the European Patent Convention

Renewing our promise to deliver high-quality patents and services

New booklet provides overview over most important national measures accompanying the implementation of the Unitary Patent in the participating Member States

EPO launches Young Professional Programme

Focus on questions of fostering innovation locally

CNIPA and EPO agree to extend successful pilot until 30 November 2023

Help achieve a more sustainable future and register now to be in with a chance of winning this major new competition.

Condolences on passing of Queen Elizabeth II

Register for the first EPAC exam in December

Every two years we gather feedback on our products and services.

Montenegro deposits instrument of accession

The EPO concluded two new agreements and hosted multiple discussions with its European and international co-operation partners

New service available ahead of Unitary Patent launch

New agreement intensifies EPO support for Ukrpatent, focussing on people and office-oriented measures

The EPO publishes four final and selects five new research projects for EPO ARP funding

Extensive information on the exam for the new European patent administration certification now available

EPO President comments on referrals G 1/22 and G 2/22

EPO delegation met with stakeholders from the field of biotechnology

Recent case law discussed in expert workshop

written decision now available

Delegations took stock of good progress towards the forthcoming UP system launch

Platform of over 300 patent search strategies helps scientists access the wealth of information stored in EPO’s databases

The Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme between the EPO and IP Australia becomes permanent on 1 July 2022.

The Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot programme between the European Patent Office (EPO) and the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) is launched on 1 July 2022

EPO member states vote for second term in office for President

The EPO published its Annual Review 2021 today. The publication, accompanied by a video, highlights a year of adaptability and resilience that saw the institution embrace new ways of working and take the digital transformation to users.

54th meeting focuses on quality, Unitary Patent and digital transformation

EPO announces winners of European Inventor Award and inaugural Young Inventors prize

Recent survey provides evidence on impact of novelty requirement under the EPC

President Campinos held a virtual meeting with Julián Fernando Palacín Gutiérrez, Executive President of INDECOPI

Oral proceedings before examining divisions are as a rule held by videoconference

Building on the EPO’s commitment to innovation and technology transfer

The heads of the world's five largest intellectual property offices (IP5) met virtually today for their 15th annual meeting.

Today sees the launch of MyEPO Portfolio, a new service for parties to proceedings before the EPO.

Thanks to all users who contributed to the consultation

Milestone application features 4IR technology

Shortlist recognises problem-solving initiatives from inspiring innovators aged 30 and under

SACEPO Working Party on Guidelines reviewed the results of the recent public user consultation

Engaging with the innovation support community to foster co-operation, promote sustainability and prepare for the Unitary Patent.

EPO President Antonio Campinos and Ukrpatent Director-General Andrew Kudin met in person.

Award highlights breakthroughs in cancer research, renewable energy, climate innovation, green industry, medical technology and manufacturing

EPO-epi working group sets out vision of a new, competence-based EQE

Study by EPO & IRENA analyses patenting for carbon-free hydrogen production

INDECOPI introduces Cooperative Patent Classification and becomes the fifth national office in Latin America to conclude a Reinforced Partnership with the EPO.

The European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

The EPO today has published a fully updated edition of its "Unitary Patent Guide".

Consolidated version of the Rules relating to Unitary Patent Protection

As of today, a new Ombuds Service is available to support stakeholders who experience difficulties in their dealings with the EPO and who have exhausted the regular channels for resolution.

A joint report by the EPO and the European Investment Bank (EIB) published today identifies unique obstacles small businesses face in developing advanced digital technologies in the EU.

In a recent consultation, EPO stakeholders submitted their preferences and expectations regarding a new Ombuds Office service.

On 6 April, the first online EP Validation request via the State Patent Bureau of the Republic of Lithuania was filed using the new Front Office filing software and a test of the end-to-end PCT application was completed via the Spanish Patent Office (OEPM)

Heads of office discuss current solidarity measures, reinforced partnership and technical assistance

SACEPO Working Party on Quality met to improve EPO products and services

Further improvements and new features as of today, with more to come in the weeks ahead

The EPO’s Patent Index 2021, published today, shows that patent filings rebounded significantly last year.

The EPO today renewed their Administrative Arrangement with the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO) to continue their cooperation.

25 universities from the ARIPO Member States join university IP outreach project

Organisations discuss next steps for a validation agreement

SACEPO working party meets to discuss recent advances and future developments in the EPO’s tools and documentation

European Qualifying Examination (EQE) 2022 completed

The symposium explored how the patent system contributes to carbon neutrality.

79 delegates from 33 national offices discuss the latest developments in the CPC

Coordinated fundraising efforts between Office and its staff raise over EUR 300 000

Legal and IT changes to our patent grant process discussed in SACEPO Working Party on Rules

Redesigned grant certificates from 1 April 2022 will contain more information about the patent and can be downloaded from the secure Mailbox.

Vital secondary Rules and Regulations adopted at inaugural meeting

Situation in Ukraine

Public consultation on the latest EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines continues to 15 April.

SACEPO working party members from around the world discussed new tools and platforms

On 16 February, almost 7 800 participants attended the first ever public Tech Day at the European Patent Office.

The latest two technology transfer case studies complete our series, demonstrating how patents support the creation of university spin-offs and facilitate their business success.

Stakeholders invited to share feedback by 4 March 2022

EPO President Campinos met with Alexander Ramsay, Chair of the UPC Preparatory Committee, and Jérôme Debrulle, Chair of the Select Committee of the Administrative Council in charge of the Unitary Patent.

Preview copy of EPO Guidelines 2022 published today will come into force from 1 March; tell us your views by 15 April

A varied and comprehensive portfolio of training activities, educational products and learning projects

Ratification by Austria triggers the start of the period for provisional application of the Unified Patent Court agreement.

Paolo Balboni has been appointed as Chair of the new Data Protection Board. He will be supported by Paul Breitbarth and Fernando Silva.

Share your views with us in our public consultation

Our latest technology transfer case studies reveal how smart patent strategies and co-operation can create commercial opportunities for innovative researchers.

Data protection at the EPO now in line with the highest international standards and best practices and with EU legislation.