2022

19.12.2022
Unitary Patent: Forms for requesting transitional measures now available

Unitary Patent transition period starts 1 January 2023, and forms for requesting the measures offered may be submitted as of that day

 
19.12.2022
EPO President’s Mission to Africa

EPO delegation, led by President Campinos, undertakes a 10-day mission to Africa

 
16.12.2022
Republic of Moldova invited to accede to European Patent Convention

The Administrative Council of the European Patent Organisation invites the Republic of Moldova to accede to the European Patent Convention (EPC).

 
16.12.2022
Season’s Greetings from the EPO

Our annual Season’s Greetings message to stakeholders tells a story of a child innovating their way out of a very winter problem 

 
14.12.2022
Candidates sit first-ever European patent administration certification

Inaugural examination draws over 500 candidates from 33 countries

 
13.12.2022
Administrative Council re-elects EPO Vice-Presidents

The Administrative Council of the European Patent Organisation has reappointed all three of the EPO’s Vice-Presidents.

 
13.12.2022
Learning path for formalities officers and paralegals

A new comprehensive learning resource from the European Patent Academy to support the European patent administration certification (EPAC).

 
13.12.2022
EPO publishes European Patent Academy 2023 training catalogue

Training Catalogue 2023 published

 
12.12.2022
EPO, ARIPO and AfrIPI host Knowledge Transfer to Africa seminar in Harare

PATLIB experts deliver training on Technology Transfer to African universities

 
6.12.2022
Starting date of EPO transitional measures remains 1 January 2023

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

 
2.12.2022
Stakeholder Quality Assurance Panels present their findings to the SACEPO Working Party on Quality

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

 
2.12.2022
Business decision-makers shared insight

How to boost technology-driven businesses with intellectual property

 
2.12.2022
Slovenia celebrates knowledge networks and innovation ecosystems

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

 
2.12.2022
EPO User Day 2022: Updating users on quality, digital user services and sustainable innovation

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

 
1.12.2022
Our commitment to excellence

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

 
1.12.2022
PATLIB: European roots, global impact

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

 
1.12.2022
Inspiring inventors – Nuria Espallargas and Fahmi Mubarok

From mission impossible to commercial success

 
28.11.2022
Annual bilateral meeting of EPO and CNIPA heads

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

 
25.11.2022
Raising the curtain on the Unitary Patent system

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

 
23.11.2022
MyEPO Portfolio: taking the EPO’s digital user services to the next level

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

 
22.11.2022
President decides future format of oral proceedings in opposition

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

 
17.11.2022
EPO and UPC sign agreement on data exchange

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

 
15.11.2022
Over three-quarters of users rate VICO positively

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

 
14.11.2022
EPO sets start of transitional measures to 1 January 2023

Supporting the early uptake of the Unitary Patent

 
14.11.2022
EPO and users join forces to assess quality

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.

 
8.11.2022
Fewer than 1 in 7 inventors in Europe are women

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

 
7.11.2022
The Unitary Patent system: A game-changer for innovation in Europe

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

 
4.11.2022
Women in science and the global economy: Is it time for change? Join the EPO’s virtual roundtable discussions

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.

 
3.11.2022
Key resources for clean energy

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

 
31.10.2022
EPO updates terms and conditions for online services

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.

 
31.10.2022
A new comprehensive learning resource from the European Patent Academy

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

 
27.10.2022
Countdown to CodeFest

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

 
26.10.2022
European Judges’ Forum 2022

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

 
24.10.2022
Autumn meeting of SACEPO Working Party on Rules

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

 
21.10.2022
Administrative Council adopts legal changes in support of digital transformation

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

 
21.10.2022
UPC has decided on its judges

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

 
17.10.2022
Study visit for OAPI examiners at the EPO

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

 
13.10.2022
Users discuss the final version of the EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines

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

 
11.10.2022
Intellectual property fosters 82 million jobs in the EU

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

 
10.10.2022
Patent Knowledge Week highlights role of patent intelligence in supporting sustainable development and SMEs

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.

 
10.10.2022
Munich’s Long Night of Museums: EPO opens its doors to the public

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.

 
10.10.2022
Inspiring inventors – Join the conversation with Carmen Hijosa

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

 
6.10.2022
Space-borne sensing on the rise for green applications

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.

 
4.10.2022
EPO and the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce of Colombia (SIC) make their PPH fast-track programme permanent

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.

 
1.10.2022
Montenegro becomes 39th Contracting State

Montenegro accedes to the European Patent Convention

 
30.9.2022
EPO launches its new Patent Quality Charter

Renewing our promise to deliver high-quality patents and services

 
28.9.2022
National measures relating to the Unitary Patent

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

 
23.9.2022
Nurturing next generation IP talent

EPO launches Young Professional Programme

 
16.9.2022
EPO Vice-President meets with Bavarian State Minister Huml

Focus on questions of fostering innovation locally

 
16.9.2022
EPO-CNIPA Joint Communiqué: Chinese applicants may continue to designate EPO as ISA

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

 
15.9.2022
Ready for the EPO’s first ever public CodeFest?

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

 
9.9.2022
EPO marks the loss of a public service role model

Condolences on passing of Queen Elizabeth II

 
6.9.2022
European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC): enrol now

Register for the first EPAC exam in December

 
1.9.2022
The EPO is launching a new round of user satisfaction surveys and your feedback is more important than ever

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

 
27.7.2022
Montenegro on its way to become 39th EPC Contracting State on 1 October 2022

Montenegro deposits instrument of accession

 
25.7.2022
WIPO General Assemblies 2022: EPO underlines its commitment to co-operation

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

 
25.7.2022
EPO introduces systematic top-up search for earlier national rights

New service available ahead of Unitary Patent launch

 
21.7.2022
EPO and Ukrpatent sign Reinforced Partnership

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

 
19.7.2022
Compelling scientific results for IP research funded under the EPO Academic Research Programme

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

 
14.7.2022
EPAC: the EPO introduces a new certification scheme for patent administrators

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

 
13.7.2022
Entitlement to priority

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

 
8.7.2022
EPO provides insights into plant patenting practices

EPO delegation met with stakeholders from the field of biotechnology

 
7.7.2022
EPO practice confirmed on adaptation of description

Recent case law discussed in expert workshop

 
6.7.2022
AI cannot be named as inventor on patent applications

written decision now available

 
4.7.2022
EPO met UPC governing bodies’ representatives

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

 
4.7.2022
Fighting coronavirus – updated support for researchers and innovators

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

 
1.7.2022
EPO and IP Australia make their PPH fast-track programme permanent

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

 
1.7.2022
Fast-track patent examination launched with Saudi Arabia

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

 
29.6.2022
António Campinos reappointed President of the European Patent Office

EPO member states vote for second term in office for President

 
29.6.2022
EPO Annual Review 2021 reflects a more resilient and sustainable organisation

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.

 
27.6.2022
Annual SACEPO meeting

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

 
21.6.2022
All the winners: European Inventor Award 2022

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

 
17.6.2022
Users respond on grace period for patents

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

 
15.6.2022
EPO and INDECOPI Peru heads of office meeting

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

 
15.6.2022
Format of oral proceedings before examining divisions

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

 
14.6.2022
EPO joins the TTO Circle with observer status

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

 
9.6.2022
IP5 step up co-operation on sustainability

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

 
1.6.2022
MyEPO Portfolio for parties to proceedings before the EPO

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

 
31.5.2022
EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines 2022: next steps

Thanks to all users who contributed to the consultation

 
25.5.2022
Patent applications published by the EPO exceed four million

Milestone application features 4IR technology

 
24.5.2022
EPO announces inaugural Young Inventors prize finalists

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

 
20.5.2022
Users discuss updates for the Guidelines 2023

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

 
19.5.2022
PATLIB2022 conference

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

 
18.5.2022
EPO- Ukrpatent meeting

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

 
17.5.2022
European Inventor Award 2022 finalists announced

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

 
13.5.2022
Proposal on new European qualifying examination (EQE)

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

 
12.5.2022
Hydrogen production with electrolysers is emerging

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

 
6.5.2022
EPO and Peru’s INDECOPI sign two partnership agreements

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

 
5.5.2022
EPO and European Institute of Innovation and Technology sign partnership agreement

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

 
29.4.2022
Updated version of the Unitary Patent Guide available

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

 
29.4.2022
Unitary Patent secondary legislation

Consolidated version of the Rules relating to Unitary Patent Protection

 
29.4.2022
EPO launches new Ombuds Office service

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.

 
28.4.2022
Despite impressive patent activity, Europe’s small deep tech businesses lag behind their US counterparts

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.

 
21.4.2022
Results of our public consultation on the EPO’s new Ombuds service

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

 
13.4.2022
First EP validation & PCT e-filings for NPOs

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)

 
11.4.2022
President Campinos meets with Director General of UKRPATENT, Andrew Kudin

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

 
6.4.2022
Further shaping EPO’s definition of quality

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

 
6.4.2022
Pilot project for oral proceedings in opposition by VICO extended to 31 December 2022

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

 
5.4.2022
Patent applications in Europe reach record level in 2021

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

 
1.4.2022
EPO and CPVO renew cooperation agreement

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

 
31.3.2022
Launch of EPO-ARIPO University IP outreach project

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

 
29.3.2022
Bilateral heads of office meeting with OAPI

Organisations discuss next steps for a validation agreement

 
25.3.2022
Improving patent information products and services with our users

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

 
23.3.2022
European Qualifying Examination 2022

European Qualifying Examination (EQE) 2022 completed

 
18.3.2022
Trilateral Symposium on IP and the environment

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

 
18.3.2022
9th CPC Annual meeting with national offices classifying in the CPC

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

 
15.3.2022
EPO donations to Ukraine

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

 
11.3.2022
Upgrading our legal framework for the digital transformation

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

 
9.3.2022
Digital grant certificate gets modern design

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

 
2.3.2022
UPC holds Administrative Committee meeting

Vital secondary Rules and Regulations adopted at inaugural meeting

 
1.3.2022
Standing together for peace in Europe

Situation in Ukraine

 
1.3.2022
New Guidelines for Examination 2022 enter into force

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

 
24.2.2022
Users welcome progress in further digitalisation of the patent grant process

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

 
23.2.2022
EPO Tech Day 2022: Accelerating sustainable innovation

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

 
22.2.2022
Innovative spin-off companies from Portugal and Germany show the way

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.

 
9.2.2022
EPO opens public user consultation on creation of Observatory

Stakeholders invited to share feedback by 4 March 2022

 
8.2.2022
Final preparations for the start of the Unitary Patent

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.

 
3.2.2022
Public consultation opens on latest EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines

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

 
26.1.2022
EPO publishes European Patent Academy 2022 training catalogue

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

 
19.1.2022
Provisional application of the UPCA to start

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

 
14.1.2022
Nomination of Data Protection Board members

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

 
13.1.2022
User survey on future Ombuds services

Share your views with us in our public consultation

 
11.1.2022
From lab to market – two more case studies highlighting routes to success

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

 
1.1.2022
New data protection rules enter into force on 1 January 2022

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

 

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