EUROPE
February 09, 2026
The European Patent Office (EPO) has announced an update to its official fees, which will come into effect on April 1, 2026. This is a significant measure that will directly impact the cost of prosecuting and maintaining European patents.
The adjustment involves a general increase in several key fees, with increases ranging from 4.5% to 5.5% in most cases, while other fees will remain unchanged.
This increase will affect, among other things, search, examination, designation, grant, and annual fees, and may therefore have a direct impact on your application strategy, budget, and renewal planning for 2026. Anticipating payments before April 1, 2026, may result in a significant reduction in costs compared to carrying out the same procedures under the new fee regime.
Please, check the updates fees on this link.
The update to EPO fees reinforces the importance of strategic and advance planning in patent matters. Reviewing schedules, evaluating advance payments, and adjusting budgets will be key to minimizing the economic impact of this regulatory change.
At UNGRIA, we will be pleased to advise you if you wish to file an early application or make an advance payment.