The EPO provides high-quality patents and efficient services that foster innovation, competitiveness and economic growth.
Searching for patents
Find out what technology already exists
European Patent Register European Publication Server Espacenet patent search
Applying for a patent
Law and practice
Keep pace with the latest legal developments
Official JournalEuropean Patent ConventionGuidelines for Examination
Boards of Appeal
Independent review of EPO decisions
News
Summit discussions link deep tech, patents and R&D with India’s innovation ambitions and EPO priorities
From December 2025, the public can use a new streamlined form to submit third-party observations online.
Renewing co-operation to advance innovation and technology insights
New study from EPO and OECD looks at patenting, firm activities, skills, trade, supply chains and government action in the quantum ecosystem
Simplified registration of general authorisations for employees representing a party
EPO publishes its comprehensive contribution to the European Commission’s forthcoming report on the Unitary Patent system’s operations
EPO and AIPPI met in Munich to discuss quality, digital transformation, the Unitary Patent and priorities for 2026
Discussions focused on quality, legal certainty and innovation in the biopharmaceutical industry
Events
Videos
Get to know the EPO!
Our statistics and Patent Index
The latest figures and patenting trends from the EPO, including data downloads and country-specific profiles.
Transparency Portal
Gain insight into our operations and decision-making processes.
Our strategy
In SP2028, the EPO will have one goal: sustainability. Our people, technologies, high-quality products and services, the partnerships the EPO develops and financial sustainability are the five drivers that will enable us to build a more sustainable patent office.
Observatory on Patents and Technology
Dedicated to outreach and research, it provides access to the latest technology trends through digital tools, events, and in-depth economic and technology studies.