European Patent Office Implements Amended Fee Schedule and Introduces Micro-Entity Fee System
As of April 1, 2024, significant amendments to the fee schedule at the European Patent Office (EPO) are poised to take effect. These changes encompass a range of fees associated with patent filings, searches, examinations, and renewals. While some fees will remain unchanged, others will see moderate to substantial increases, impacting applicants and patent holders alike.
Key Changes in Fee Schedule
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European and Supplementary European Search Fees: The cost for a European or supplementary European search will increase by approximately 4%. For applications filed on or after July 1, 2005, the fee will rise from 1460 EUR to 1520 EUR. For applications filed prior to this date, the fee will increase from 1000 EUR to 1040 EUR.
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International Search Fee: The international search fee will also undergo a 4% increase, rising from 1775 EUR to 1845 EUR.
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Designation Fee for Contracting States: The designation fee for one or more Contracting State will increase to 685 EUR from 660 EUR for applications filed on or after April 1, 2009.
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Patent Renewal Fees: Renewal fees for patents will see varying increases. The fee for the 3rd year of renewal will increase by approximately 30% to 690 EUR from 530 EUR. The 5th-year fee will rise by approximately 8% to 1000 EUR from 925 EUR, and the 7th-year fee will increase to 1310 EUR from 1305 EUR.
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Examination Fees: Examination fees will rise by approximately 4%. For applications filed before July 1, 2005, the fee will increase from 2055 EUR to 2135 EUR, and for those filed after this date, the fee will rise from 1840 EUR to 1915 EUR.
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Grant and Publication Fee: The grant and publication fee will increase by approximately 4%, rising from 1040 EUR to 1080 EUR.
Introduction of New Fee System for Micro-Entities
In addition to the amended fee schedule, the EPO will introduce a new fee system tailored for micro-entities. Micro-entities, as defined by the EPO, include microenterprises, natural persons, non-profit organizations, universities, and public research organizations that have filed fewer than 5 patent applications in the past 5 years.
The new fee structure for micro-entities will offer further fee reductions for filing, search, designation, examination, grant, and renewal of patents for eligible applicants. These reductions aim to support innovators with limited resources, fostering a more diverse pool of inventors and encouraging innovation across various sectors.
The upcoming changes to the fee schedule at the European Patent Office will impact patent applicants and holders in various ways. While some fees will increase, particularly for renewals and examinations, the introduction of a new fee system for micro-entities aims to make patent protection more accessible to a broader range of innovators. It’s essential for stakeholders to familiarize themselves with these changes to effectively plan and budget for their patent applications and maintenance.
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