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
Create state-of-the-art automated systems that use data analytics to assess patent value for smarter IP decisions
Workshop with member states looks at current practice in examining plant-related inventions and highlights importance of green biotech for Europe
New features from 1 October: colour drawings for European patent applications and separate PDF filing option for drawings
Flags fly at half-mast in Munich and The Hague
The world’s leading sustainability standard for buildings
Discontinuation of the Online Filing (eOLF) software at end of 2025 - OLF 2.0 becomes the standard online filing solution with the EPO
Continuation of proceedings to ensure efficient functioning of the patent system
Simplified registration of general authorisations for employees representing a party from 1 December
Events
Videos
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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.