Unitary Patent transition period starts 1 January 2023, and forms for requesting the measures offered may be submitted as of that day
EPO delegation, led by President Campinos, undertakes a 10-day mission to Africa
The Administrative Council of the European Patent Organisation invites the Republic of Moldova to accede to the European Patent Convention (EPC).
Our annual Season’s Greetings message to stakeholders tells a story of a child innovating their way out of a very winter problem
Inaugural examination draws over 500 candidates from 33 countries
The Administrative Council of the European Patent Organisation has reappointed all three of the EPO’s Vice-Presidents.
A new comprehensive learning resource from the European Patent Academy to support the European patent administration certification (EPAC).
Training Catalogue 2023 published
PATLIB experts deliver training on Technology Transfer to African universities
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.