The aim of these articles is to keep our Clients and Associates updated about developments in the sector of Intellectual Property in general and our firm in particular. In this way, we wish to provide a broader view of the tools that the field of trade marks, domain names, patents, designs and related rights offers to entrepreneurs to enhance and protect their efforts in researching and developing new solutions and ideas.
EPO – Adjustment of Official Fees: Advance Planning Recommended
INTERPATENT wishes to inform its foreign associates that the European Patent Office (EPO) has announced an increase of several official fees relating to the European patent procedure starting from April 1, 2026.
The adjustment concerns, inter alia, filing, search, examination and renewal fees. As per established practice, the new fee schedule will apply to payments made on or after the date of entry into force, while fees validly paid before that date will remain subject to the current rates.
Although the percentage increase may vary depending on the specific fee, the cumulative impact on filing programmes and portfolio management should not be underestimated.
Practical Impact for Applicants
In view of the above, applicants considering European protection may wish to review their filing strategies.
In particular:
- European patent applications that are ready for filing may be filed before the new fees become applicable;
- Euro-PCT applications approaching the 31-month deadline may be assessed to determine whether early regional phase entry is appropriate;
- Ongoing budget forecasts for 2026 may require adjustment to reflect the revised official fees.
Timely action may result in measurable cost efficiencies, especially for clients with multiple anticipated filings.
Our Assistance Before the EPO
INTERPATENT, through its European Patent Attorneys, is happy to represent international clients in proceedings before the EPO, including:
- direct European application filings;
- Euro-PCT regional phase entries;
- examination and prosecution;
- oppositions and appeals;
- strategic advice on European patent portfolio management.
We remain at your disposal should you wish to discuss specific cases, request updated cost estimates under the current fee schedule, or coordinate forthcoming European filings.
For any further information, please feel free to contact our attorneys at INTERPATENT.