The EPO is due to increase its fees on 1st April, 2024. There are some large increases planned in relation to renewal fees, particularly the third- and fourth-year renewal fees that are to increase by approximately 30%.
The main fees being changed, and the new amounts, are as follows:
|
Fee |
Current Amount |
Increased Amount |
Percentage Increase |
|
Search fee |
€1,460.00 |
€1,520.00 |
4% |
|
Examination fee |
€1,840.00 |
€1,915.00 |
4% |
|
Designation fee |
€660.00 |
€685.00 |
4% |
|
3rd year renewal fee |
€530.00 |
€690.00 |
30% |
|
4th year renewal fee |
€660.00 |
€845.00 |
28% |
|
5th year renewal fee |
€925.00 |
€1,000.00 |
8% |
|
6th year renewal fee |
€1,180.00 |
€1,155.00 |
-2% |
|
8th year renewal fee |
€1,440.00 |
€1,465.00 |
2% |
|
9th year renewal fee |
€1,570.00 |
€1,620.00 |
3% |
There is no increase of the seventh‑ and the tenth‑year+ renewal fees.
Renewal fees can be paid up to three months in advance, with the exception of the third‑year renewal fee, which can be paid up to six months in advance. Applicants can take advantage of the current fee rates by attending to the payment of any fees in advance of 1st April, 2024.
Similarly, cost savings could be made by entering applications into the EPO regional phase early, or by attending to payment of examination and designation fees for any pending divisional applications.
Please speak to one of our experienced attorneys if you wish to know more about this cost saving.
Full details available on the EPO announcement here.